First Jail Sentences for Social Media Posts Linked to Riots

Two men have been jailed for using social media to incite violence during the recent unrest across the UK, marking the first such convictions.

Jordan Parlour, 28, was sentenced to 20 months in prison after he posted on Facebook, encouraging people to attack a hotel in Leeds that was housing asylum seekers and refugees. Parlour admitted to publishing material intended to incite racial hatred and was sentenced at Leeds Crown Court.

The nationwide unrest was triggered by false online accusations naming the suspected killer of three young girls in a Southport knife attack.

Following Parlour’s conviction, Tyler Kay also received a prison sentence for his social media posts, in which he called for hotels accommodating asylum seekers to be set on fire. The courts are taking a tough stance on individuals using social media to incite violence, especially in the context of the ongoing unrest.

In court, Parlour’s mother submitted a statement suggesting that her son had been “caught up in the emotions sweeping across the country.” Despite this, the judge underscored the gravity of his actions, particularly given the charged environment.

These cases represent a pivotal step in addressing the use of social media to promote hate and violence during the riots. Over 700 people have been arrested in connection with the disturbances, and authorities continue to keep a close watch on online activity as part of their efforts to maintain public order.