theguardian.com
Bombing Survivors Win Lawsuit Against Conspiracy Theorist
Two Manchester Arena bombing survivors successfully sued a former TV producer who falsely claimed the attack was staged, winning £45,000 in damages.
English
United Kingdom
UkTerrorismLawsuitMediaConspiracyDamages
Manchester Arena
Martin HibbertEve HibbertRichard HallMrs Justice SteynJonathan PricePaul Oakley
- What are the broader implications of this case?
- The case highlights the legal implications of spreading false information about victims of terrorism and the potential for such actions to constitute harassment.
- How much were the plaintiffs awarded in damages?
- Hall argued his actions were in the public interest as a journalist, claiming millions believed a lie about the attack. However, the court rejected this argument.
- What was the defendant's argument, and what was the court's ruling?
- The judge, Mrs Justice Steyn, ruled in favor of the Hibberts, describing Hall's actions as a reckless abuse of media freedom. She awarded each £22,500 in damages.
- Who were the plaintiffs in the lawsuit, and what were their claims?
- Martin Hibbert and his daughter Eve were awarded £45,000 in damages after suing Richard Hall, a former TV producer, for harassment. Hall had falsely claimed the Manchester Arena bombing was staged and involved the Hibberts as "crisis actors."
- What were the arguments for and against the amount of damages awarded?
- Jonathan Price, representing the Hibberts, argued for £75,000 in damages, while Paul Oakley, representing Hall, countered with £7,500. The judge settled on £45,000 total.