UK Judge Aims to Decide Next Week Celebrity Request to Stay Anonymous Amid Sexual Misconduct Allegations
Decision expected next week
Justice Matthew Nicklin told London’s High Court on Wednesday, October 28, that he would do everything he could to reach a decision next week. He said the court would reserve judgment and acknowledged the urgency of the matter.
Nicklin told the parties to be ready early next week. Reporting restrictions remain in place while the court considers whether the celebrity’s identity can be published.
Dispute over publication
The unnamed public figure is suing the UK’s ITN and The Guardian in an effort to stop them publishing sexual misconduct allegations. The celebrity denies the claims, which reportedly involve alleged inappropriate sexual activity with numerous girls and young women.
The celebrity wants his name kept out of the press and fears what his lawyers describe as a trial by media. His lawyers say he would be highly likely to take his own life if his name were made public.
Arguments about risk and debate
The celebrity’s lawyers have also said he previously attempted suicide twice, was hospitalized twice, was placed in involuntary detention and saw more than 10 doctors over the matter. A lawyer for IGN and GNM argued that judges should not be drawn into assessing the causes of suicidal thoughts, saying those questions belong to professionals. The lawyer also said publishing the claims would contribute to a debate of public importance about men using power to commit misconduct against women.
Key points
- Justice Matthew Nicklin expects to decide next week whether the celebrity can remain anonymous.
- The celebrity denies the allegations and is suing ITN and The Guardian to block publication.
- His lawyers say disclosure could put his life at risk.
- IGN and GNM’s lawyer says publication would contribute to a public debate about misconduct and power.