Broadcaster Dan Wootton has formally denied accusations of catfishing a man who claims to be a former colleague, in legal documents submitted to the High Court.
The Core Allegations
The legal claim, brought by an anonymous individual referred to as YXN, alleges that in 2010, Wootton engaged in sexualised messaging while pretending to be a woman named 'Maria Joseph'. It is claimed that during these exchanges, the persona of Maria Joseph encouraged the claimant to send explicit photographs and a video.
The claimant is suing for damages, stating the ordeal caused him personal injuries, humiliation, and hurt to his feelings. The lawsuit cites intentional infliction of harm, misuse of confidential information, infringement of privacy, and deceit.
Wootton's Legal Defence
In court documents seen by the BBC, Wootton has issued a comprehensive rebuttal. He denies ever communicating with the man 'via any medium'. Furthermore, he states he has never been in possession of any explicit photographs or video portraying the claimant.
Wootton also denies possessing any flirtatious or sexualised messages from the man. His defence highlights a message from the claimant which suggests the man himself was sceptical about the identity of the person he was messaging.
The submitted evidence includes a message from the claimant to 'Maria Joseph' which read: 'Maria [if that is really your name] ... we are in a catch 22. i can’t play without finding this out. won’t tell them as i’m not gonna advertise the fact i have apparently started to chatting to hot strangers on the internet. or tell me your real name then? [sic]'.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The case remains active in the High Court, with the claimant, YXN, having been granted anonymity. He maintains that he has suffered significant loss and damage as a direct result of Wootton's alleged actions.
The legal battle puts a spotlight on the serious nature of catfishing allegations and the potential legal consequences for obtaining intimate images by deception.
