A judge has thrown out a private prosecution against the American comedian Reginald D Hunter, branding the legal action as 'abusive' and motivated by a desire to see the performer 'cancelled'.
The Court's Decisive Ruling
The case was heard at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, 23 December 2025. District Judge Michael Snow quashed the summons following an application by Hunter's defence team. The summons had been brought privately by the charity Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA).
It accused the 56-year-old comic of three counts of sending an offensive communication via X, formerly Twitter. The alleged offences were said to have occurred on 24 August, 10 September, and 11 September last year, and were directed at a user named Heidi Bachram.
'An Abuse of Process'
In his ruling, Judge Snow was unequivocal. He determined that the CAA's primary motive in seeking to prosecute Hunter was not a genuine pursuit of justice, but rather 'to have him cancelled'. On this basis, he concluded that the prosecution itself was an 'abusive' process.
This ruling represents a significant legal setback for the private prosecution and underscores the judiciary's role in scrutinising the intent behind such actions.
Implications for Comedy and Free Speech
The case had been closely watched within arts and entertainment circles, touching on ongoing debates about free speech, comedy, and 'cancel culture'. Judge Snow's strong language in dismissing the case will likely fuel further discussion about the boundaries of legal action in response to offensive material, especially from public figures.
The decision brings an immediate end to this particular legal threat against Reginald D Hunter, a well-known figure on the UK comedy circuit for many years.
