bbc.com
Conspiracy Claim Costs \u00a345k
A conspiracist who claimed the Manchester Arena bombing was staged has been ordered to pay \u00a345,000 in damages to two survivors.
English
United Kingdom
JusticeHuman Rights ViolationsUkLawsuitConspiracyHarassmentDamages
Pa MediaHudgell SolicitorsRoyal Courts Of Justice
Richard HallMartin HibbertEve HibbertSalman AbediMrs Justice Steyn
- What is the main subject of this news article?
- Richard Hall, a conspiracist who claimed the Manchester Arena bombing was staged, has been ordered to pay \u00a345,000 in damages to two survivors, Martin Hibbert and his daughter Eve.
- What was the judge's ruling on the defendant's claims?
- The judge, Mrs Justice Steyn, described Hall's claims as \"preposterous and untrue\" but acknowledged his belief in their truth. She granted an injunction preventing future harassment.
- Who were the plaintiffs in this case, and what were their claims?
- Martin Hibbert and his daughter Eve sued Hall for harassment after he filmed Eve outside her home and made false allegations about the attack. The court found in favor of the Hibberts.
- What were the reactions of the plaintiffs to the court's decision?
- Mr. Hibbert, who was severely injured in the bombing, stated that Hall's behavior was \"oppressive and unacceptable\" and hopes the judgement protects others from similar actions.
- How did the court view the defendant's actions in relation to freedom of expression?
- Hall's actions were deemed to be an abuse of media freedom, even though freedom of expression protects journalism. The judgement is considered a victory for the Hibberts and sets a precedent.