An inquest into the death of Peter Lynch, who was found deceased in his cell at HMP Moorland in South Yorkshire in October, has heard that he died from hanging. Lynch was serving a sentence of two years and eight months for violent disorder and was part of the group who caused unrest outside a hotel used to house asylum seekers in Rotherham during August. The inquest heard that further investigations are ongoing into his cause of death, as well as into two previous suicide attempts by Lynch.
Lynch had a range of health issues including angina, thyroid issues, and diabetes, among others. Lynch’s family members, including his son Casey, participated in the inquest and asked questions about the investigation, including whether he should have been in prison in the first place and why his previous suicide attempts were not taken seriously. The family was informed that they would be able to contribute their concerns and input into the investigation through other hearings.
Det Sgt Gareth Gent, from South Yorkshire Police, said Lynch was last seen alive during a roll-call at 7 pm on October 18th and was found unresponsive in his cell the next morning by staff. Gent stated that the investigation thus far suggested that Lynch was alone when he was found, and officers administered CPR until paramedics arrived, but he was ultimately pronounced deceased at 6.42 am. The full inquest will be held before a jury at a date to be fixed.
During Lynch’s trial in August, the court heard that he had been at the forefront of the crowd protesting against immigration and had shouted abuse directed at the police. He was one of over 60 men who have been jailed following the rioting in Rotherham, which resulted in 64 police officers and four dogs being injured during the violent unrest. Throughout Lynch’s life, he had been married for 36 years and had four adult children as well as three grandchildren
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