An “armchair thug” who used social media to incite far-right violence during the recent riots across the UK has been sentenced to 20 months in prison. Jordan Parlour, a 28-year-old sign installer from Leeds, urged others to “smash the f***” out of a hotel housing asylum seekers through a series of Facebook posts, despite being unable to join the riots himself due to a broken heel.
Parlour’s sentencing marks the first conviction for online incitement related to the violent disorder that has swept across Britain since the tragic murders of three young girls in Southport on July 29. The posts by Parlour specifically targeted the Britannia Hotel in the Seacroft area of Leeds, which was home to 210 refugees and asylum seekers.
Recorder of Leeds Judge Guy Kearl KC handed down the sentence at Leeds Crown Court this afternoon after Parlour pleaded guilty to stirring up racial hatred and using threatening, abusive, or insulting language. The judge highlighted Parlour’s role in inciting violence, despite not participating directly: “There can be no doubt you were inciting others to do so, otherwise why post the comments?
The court heard that Parlour posted his inflammatory comments on Facebook just after the Britannia Hotel had been attacked by people throwing missiles and breaking windows. His post came before further attacks on hotels housing asylum seekers, including an incident in Rotherham.
Defending Parlour, Nicholas Hammond told the court that his client was “not part of any sinister group activity designed to stir up violence” and was “not affiliated with any group.” Parlour’s mother also wrote a letter to the court, expressing her belief that her son had been “caught up and swept away by emotions circulating throughout the country.
In a pointed remark during sentencing, Judge Kearl KC emphasized that the law applies equally to all, stating: “The law applies to everyone, no matter what colour, race, religion, or political persuasion; there is no distinction.
The case has drawn significant attention amid the broader context of unrest across the UK. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper recently condemned “armchair thugs” like Parlour, who incite violence from behind their screens, contributing to the ongoing disorder.
In related cases, more individuals are facing legal consequences for their roles in the riots. Tyle Kay, 26, appeared at Northampton Crown Court today on similar charges, while former Labour councillor Ricky Jones, 57, will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court after being charged with encouraging violent disorder.
As the legal system continues to address the fallout from these riots, swift justice is being seen as a deterrent to further violence. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer praised the rapid sentencing of rioters, which he believes has helped to prevent more widespread disorder.
Parlour’s conviction and sentencing serve as a stark reminder of the serious consequences of using social media to incite violence, especially during times of national unrest.
