A woman in the UK has been convicted of harassment in what is being described as the country’s first legal case involving offensive videos sent via social media.
The case, which unfolded in a magistrates’ court in Caernarfon, North Wales, involved 25-year-old Rhiannon Evans, who repeatedly targeted her boyfriend’s ex-partner, Deborah Prytherch, with a series of inappropriate and distressing messages.
The court heard that Evans sent multiple video clips over several days, beginning on December 22.
These videos, recorded with a sense of amusement, were intended to taunt the victim, who later reported feeling anxious and unsafe in her own home.
Despite the victim’s clear discomfort, the harassment continued over the holiday season, even after law enforcement became aware of the situation.
During the trial, prosecutors described Evans’s actions as deliberately malicious, emphasizing that she appeared to take pleasure in sending the videos.
When questioned, she admitted to her behavior but claimed she had acted out of frustration over an ongoing dispute between her partner and his former partner. She insisted that she did not initially realize her actions could be considered a criminal offense.
Defense lawyers argued that Evans had consumed alcohol before sending the messages and had not intended to cause serious harm. They also highlighted her ongoing mental health challenges, which may have influenced her decision-making.
Despite this, the court determined that her behavior had crossed the line into harassment, particularly as the victim had repeatedly expressed distress.
As a result, Evans was sentenced to undergo 15 rehabilitation sessions and placed under a 60-day alcohol abstinence monitoring order.
She was also issued a two-year restraining order, prohibiting any contact with the victim. Additionally, she was ordered to pay £100 in compensation and £199 in legal costs.
During sentencing, a probation officer noted that Evans had been in a relationship for two years and that tensions had long existed between her and her partner’s ex-partner.
The defendant reportedly questioned why she had not simply been blocked from communication before legal action was taken.
The unusual nature of the case has sparked discussion, as it marks a rare instance of digital harassment being prosecuted in such a manner.
Authorities have emphasized that online behavior can have real-world legal consequences, regardless of whether the perpetrator views their actions as lighthearted or humorous.
Source: newsandvibes.com
