Man Found Guilty of Stalking Former Tory Minister
A 61-year-old man has been convicted of stalking prominent Conservative MP Penny Mordaunt, following a trial at Southampton Crown Court that heard disturbing details of his persistent harassment.
Edward Brandt was found guilty by a jury after evidence revealed he had engaged in a campaign of unwanted attention towards the former Leader of the House of Commons, leaving her feeling vulnerable and emotionally drained.
The Harassing Behaviour
The court heard how Brandt bombarded Mordaunt with numerous emails and phone calls, creating a pattern of behaviour that caused significant distress. In one particularly alarming incident, he jumped over a security barrier at her constituency office, demonstrating a concerning level of determination to make contact.
Penny Mordaunt herself gave emotional testimony during the trial, breaking down in tears as she described the profound impact Brandt's actions had on her daily life and sense of security.
"You're constantly having to think about whether he was going to be in your workplace or on your street," she told the court, highlighting the ongoing anxiety caused by the stalking behaviour.
Court Proceedings and Impact
Southampton Crown Court previously heard how Brandt's actions left the prominent politician feeling vulnerable and drained, with the constant worry about his potential presence affecting both her professional and personal life.
The jury deliberated before returning a guilty verdict on the stalking charge, bringing the legal process to a conclusion while acknowledging the serious nature of the offences committed.
This case highlights the very real consequences of stalking behaviour and its impact on public figures, with the court recognising the emotional toll such persistent harassment can take on individuals regardless of their public profile.
