Thomas Birley Sentenced to 9 Years for Violent, Racist Riots Targeting Asylum Seekers
September 7, 2024Thomas Birley, a 27-year-old from Swinton, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for his role in the violent riots that targeted a hotel housing asylum seekers on August 4.
Birley pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including arson with intent to endanger life, violent disorder, and possession of an offensive weapon.
During the unrest, he was seen adding wood to a fire in a rubbish container pushed against the hotel's exit, which caused panic among the hotel staff and guests sheltering inside.
Witnesses reported that 22 hotel staff members barricaded themselves in a panic room, fearing for their lives as the situation escalated.
The riots resulted in injuries to over 50 police officers, with a mob attacking them with projectiles and attempting to set the hotel on fire.
The widespread unrest led to approximately 1,300 arrests across the country, with many individuals facing serious charges.
Birley is the first individual convicted of arson with intent to endanger life stemming from the riots, which left 64 police officers injured.
Following the sentencing, Security Minister Dan Jarvis stated that the sentence reflects the seriousness of Birley's crimes.
This sentence marks the longest handed down to date in connection with the far-right riots that erupted in several British cities.
The chaos unfolded in Manvers, North England, where a mob targeted the Holiday Inn Express, sheltering over 200 asylum seekers.
The unrest was fueled by misinformation regarding a 17-year-old suspect involved in a stabbing incident that killed three children.
Judge Jeremy Richardson described Birley's actions as 'suffused with racism' and characterized them as dangerous, indicative of a hateful mindset.
Summary based on 14 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Sep 6, 2024
Rotherham man jailed for nine years in longest sentence yet over summer riotsThe Independent • Sep 6, 2024
Arsonist who targeted asylum hotel given longest UK riots sentenceAP News • Sep 6, 2024
Man sentenced to 9 years in prison following far-right riot at hotel in England