Charles Bronson Tells Young Inmates to Drop Knives and Drugs
Britain’s most notorious prisoner, Charles Bronson, is positioning himself as a peacemaker behind bars, urging young inmates to abandon knives and drugs. In a recently released audio recording, the 73-year-old inmate can be heard addressing “young cons” directly, warning them about the dangers of synthetic drugs such as spice, often referred to as a “zombie drug.”
Bronson, who legally changed his surname to Salvador, has spent 51 years in prison, mostly for violent offences committed while incarcerated. Originally jailed for armed robbery, he became infamous for taking 11 hostages and attacking prison staff, cementing his reputation as one of Britain’s longest-serving and most controversial inmates.
The Message from Behind Bars
In the recording, Bronson’s gravelly voice is heard calling on young prisoners to take a different path:
“Young cons oi! Put that knife down, what’s the matter with ya? Stop taking that f***** spice, it’s no good for ya. Stay away from drugs, get in the gym. Keep fit, healthy, strong, fight for your dreams.”
Bronson describes himself as “chilled, placid” compared to his younger years and says he now actively tries to prevent trouble in prison. He portrays himself as anti-crime and anti-violence, emphasizing fitness, self-control, and art as positive alternatives to destructive habits.
A Campaign for Freedom
The message surfaced as his supporters, including his son Michael Jonathan Peterson, continue to campaign for his release. At a recent event in Liverpool, Michael dressed as his father while speaking to him on the phone in front of gathered supporters.
Bronson faces his ninth parole hearing in October. Though he has expressed little faith in the system, claiming he would “rather die than crawl,” his legal team intends to represent him in hopes of securing his freedom.
In September 2024, Bronson told Metro that his “soul is good” and that he has “no regrets,” making the case that his rehabilitation and contributions through art prove he deserves release.
Art, Charity, and Change
Bronson has built a reputation as a prolific self-taught artist during his time in prison, raising thousands of pounds for charities through the sale of his artwork. In the audio message, he argues that his art and his personal transformation reflect his growth and readiness for freedom:
“My art is my gift of life. I raised thousands of pounds for all sorts of charities. Would I have done all that 20, 30, 40, 50 years ago? Yes, I deserve to go out. I’m anti-crime, anti-violence, I’m just an artist wanting to get on with his life.”
He also referenced his family, particularly his 95-year-old mother, expressing his desire to reunite with her:
“For her to see me get out of jail, have a cup of tea with her, a slice of apple pie, give her a hug, I can look after her. She’ll probably live another 10 years.”
The Question of Release
Despite his public statements of reform, Bronson remains a polarizing figure. His history of violent outbursts in prison, including hostage-taking incidents, has repeatedly thwarted previous bids for release. Critics argue that his past actions show he remains a danger, while supporters believe he has paid his debt to society many times over.
With his next parole hearing approaching, the debate over Bronson’s future intensifies. His appeal to young prisoners may be seen as part of his broader campaign to prove he has changed — a man once feared for his violence now claiming the role of mentor and reformer.
Whether the parole board will be convinced remains uncertain, but for now, Bronson’s voice continues to resonate from behind the walls of HMP Woodhill, carrying a message of warning, redemption, and hope.
