Charles Bronson: Britain’s Most Violent Prisoner
Born Michael Gordon Peterson on the 6th December 1952, Bronson has often been referred to in the press as the “most violent prisoner in Britain”.
The family moved from Luton to Cheshire and by 13 years old, he was caught stealing and was reprimanded in juvenile court. He then returned to Luton, where he worked in a supermarket and was fired after two weeks for attacking his manager.
“As a boy, he was a lovely lad. He was obviously bright and always good with children. He was gentle and mild-mannered, never a bully; he would defend the weak.” — Eileen Parry, Bronson’s aunt.
Early prison life
In 1968, he was sent to Risley prison on remand for causing criminal damage to nearby cars during an argument with his girlfriend’s father. After his trial, he was cautioned and put on probation after paying a fine.
During the day, Bronson worked as a removal man and at night he was an unlicensed fighter, taking part in matches in underground clubs. He would spend many occasions in front of judges throughout the next few years, from petty crime to crashing a stolen lorry. Bronson was handed suspended sentences, fines and probation periods, instead of going to prison.
