A man in Britain has been sentenced to more than three years in prison for using social media to incite racial hatred and encourage violence against asylum seekers. The 26-year-old father of three, Tyler Kay, was handed one of the harshest sentences for his role in the recent far-right violence that swept through the country.
The judge condemned Kay's actions, stating that his posts were 'utterly repulsive, racist, and shocking' and had no place in a civilized society. The violence erupted following misinformation spread online about a teen suspect in a mass stabbing incident being a Muslim asylum seeker.
Riots broke out in multiple cities and towns, with protesters shouting anti-immigrant and Islamophobic slurs, setting cars on fire, looting stores, and terrorizing communities. Prime Minister Keir Starmer ordered swift justice to deter further 'far-right thuggery' and instructed police to remain vigilant.
Kay was not the only individual sentenced for inciting violence. Another person, Jordan Parlour, received a 20-month prison term for encouraging attacks on a hotel housing migrants. The court noted that Parlour's actions were fueled by frustration with immigration issues in the UK.
Following eight days of violent outbreaks, far-right demonstrations expected at 100 locations did not materialize, replaced instead by large anti-racism marches. The government has arrested nearly 600 individuals and prosecuted over 175 for their involvement in the disorder.
The authorities have pledged to track down and prosecute those responsible for the violence, including individuals who incite hatred online. Despite claiming not to be racist, Kay's reposting of a message encouraging violence led to his sentencing, with the judge dismissing his defense of naivety.
The wife of a Conservative councilor, who originally posted the inflammatory message, has also been arrested in connection with the unrest.
