A Life Marked by Highs and Lows
Piers Ravenhill’s life story is one of sharp contrasts. Born into privilege, he found himself drawn to the lucrative but dangerous world of crime, eventually becoming one of the UK's most prominent drug dealers. His journey took him through two extensive prison sentences—totalling 34 years—which served as both punishment and a catalyst for profound reflection.
In this candid interview, Piers shares the lessons learned from his tumultuous past and how he’s striving to rebuild his life. His story is not only a cautionary tale but also a testament to resilience and the possibility of redemption.
The Harsh Reality of Crime
Piers recounts the allure of the criminal lifestyle in his younger years—quick money, fast living, and the illusion of invincibility. But the consequences caught up with him. His first prison sentence of 17 years came after being caught with millions in drugs and cash. Upon his release, he returned to his old ways, convinced he could operate under the radar. Three years later, he was back behind bars, facing another 17-year sentence.
Reflecting on those years, Piers doesn’t shy away from admitting the devastation he caused, not only to himself but to others. “A lot of things went inside people’s bodies because of me,” he says, acknowledging the human toll of his choices.
The Transformative Power of Time
While his first prison sentence felt surreal, Piers says the second stint broke him in ways he never anticipated. “I knew I was in trouble, but the second time, it really hurt,” he admits. He entered prison with severe brain trauma from a recent accident, adding another layer of difficulty to an already bleak situation.
Piers’ time in prison wasn’t wasted. During his first sentence, he pursued education, completing diplomas in Spanish and French, among other courses. He also took on roles as a peer mentor and listener, helping other inmates through their own struggles. These experiences planted the seeds for his eventual desire to give back, though he admits it took years—and his second prison sentence—for the lessons to fully sink in.
A System Stacked Against Redemption
One of the lasting consequences of Piers’ crimes has been the financial and social constraints imposed by confiscation orders. These orders hang over him like a shadow, ensuring that any substantial assets or earnings are seized to repay a calculated “benefit figure” from his criminal past. Despite losing millions during his arrests, these figures continue to follow him, making it nearly impossible to build a conventional financial future.
Piers describes the frustration of these orders, which strip individuals of the ability to truly start anew. “I can’t own a car worth more than a couple of grand. I can’t save money or buy a house,” he says, highlighting how these restrictions hinder long-term stability and reintegration.
The Toll on Mental Health
The years of incarceration and the trauma of his life choices have left Piers grappling with severe mental health challenges. Recently diagnosed with PTSD, depression, and anxiety, he’s now actively seeking professional help to address the emotional scars. “There’s just too much baggage and information from everything that’s happened,” he says.
His journey toward healing is ongoing, but Piers is committed to facing these challenges head-on. “I finally learned my lesson,” he says, vowing never to return to his former lifestyle. His mental health battles have also fueled his desire to speak openly about the importance of seeking help, hoping to encourage others to do the same.
Connecting Through Storytelling
One unexpected outlet for Piers has been TikTok. With over 16,000 followers, he uses the platform to share his story, connect with people, and reflect on his experiences. His candid videos have resonated with viewers, many of whom see him as an example of the power of change.
“I never thought I’d be on TikTok,” he admits with a laugh, “but it’s been a great way to connect with people and share my journey.” The platform has also given Piers a way to discuss his book, From Privilege to Prison, and raise awareness about his next project.
A Cautionary Tale
Piers’ book, From Privilege to Prison, delves deeply into his life, from the highs of his criminal success to the lows of incarceration and loss. Available on Amazon, the memoir has received positive feedback for its raw honesty and gripping narrative. It serves as both a personal reflection and a stark warning to others about the realities of a life of crime.
Beyond the book, Piers is considering taking his message directly to schools and communities, where he hopes to mentor young people. “I didn’t have anyone to guide me when I was young,” he says. “If I can stop just one person from going down the same path, it will be worth it.”
The Role of Redemption
Despite the weight of his past, Piers is optimistic about the future. “I can’t change what I’ve done, but I can control what I do now,” he says. By focusing on his writing, his mental health, and his desire to help others, he’s slowly building a new chapter—one defined by redemption rather than regret.