The HM Prison Fenchurch riots were a series of revolts in the HM Prison Fenchurch over a period of two days in 1983, which resulted in the prison being taken over by the convicts. In an attempt to restore order, the police entered the prison, but were forced to evacuate due to the huge numbers of convicts. Several police officers were killed and Fenchurch East desk sergeant Viv James was taken hostage. It was CID's objective to rescue James (A2A Series 3: Episode 6).