Transgender activist accuses Graham Linehan, co-creator of Father Ted, of harassment; trial commences for the high-profile case.
In a notable turn of events, Graham Linehan, the co-creator of the popular British comedy series Father Ted, is currently standing trial at Westminster Magistrates' Court. The renowned writer is accused of harassing transgender activist Sophia Brooks on social media.
The allegations stem from a series of posts made by Linehan, in which he described the disruption of an event as an "example of domestic terrorism," referring to Ms. Brooks as an "absolute psycho," a "scumbag who harasses women," and a "deeply disturbed sociopath."
In a court hearing in May, Linehan pleaded not guilty to the charges. However, Prosecutor Julia Faure Walker stated that his posts about Ms. Brooks were relentless, oppressive, verbally abusive, vindictive, and reflected a deep disliking of her. Ms. Faure Walker also noted that Linehan did not accept his online posts amounted to harassment.
The controversy surrounding Linehan began last October when he met Ms. Brooks in person for the first time outside the Battle of Ideas conference in Westminster. Before entering the court, Linehan posed with a sign that read "There's no such thing as a 'transgender child'."
The transgender activist accused by Linehan of lingering on social media and damaging his mobile phone is Shon Faye. A video shown in court appears to show Linehan engaging in a verbal altercation with Ms. Brooks and grabbing her phone.
It is important to note that Ms. Brooks felt alarmed and distressed when Linehan branded her as a "deeply disturbed sociopath" on social media. On the other side, Linehan believes exposing tactics of trans activities is in the public interest.
In a statement, Linehan claimed that Ms. Brooks had harassed him and approached him for filming at close quarters. He also faces a charge of damaging Ms. Brooks' mobile phone.
On a separate note, it was revealed that on 11 October last year, a conference of the women's rights group LGB Alliance was disrupted by some girls releasing insects. However, there is no evidence that Ms. Brooks participated in this incident.
Linehan has become a vocal critic of the trans rights movement in recent years. As the trial continues, the court will determine whether his actions towards Ms. Brooks constitute harassment.
