Charles Bronson, one of the UK's longest-serving prisoners, has lost his latest bid for release. The 70-year-old, born Michael Peterson in Luton in 1952, has spent most of the last five decades behind bars after an initial conviction for armed robbery in 1974.
Known for his violent behaviour in prison, Bronson has been involved in numerous hostage situations and attacks on staff and inmates. He changed his name to Charles Bronson in the 1980s and now goes by Charles Salvador, which he claims means 'man of peace' in Spanish. Despite his notoriety, he has also produced artwork that has raised around £100,000 for charity.
A public parole hearing earlier this month heard that Bronson spends 23 hours a day in his cell and that he would not cope with release. An independent psychologist suggested he suffers from PTSD due to 'brutal and unacceptable treatment' in prison. However, his offender manager noted improvements in his emotional control and a reduction in outbursts.
During the hearing, Bronson admitted he had been 'very naughty' but said he had probably deserved 35 of his 50 years inside. The parole board ultimately decided he was not suitable for release, meaning he will remain at Woodhill Prison in Milton Keynes.
