Warrant Issued After Defendant Skips Court
A judge has issued an arrest warrant for a North London man who failed to appear for his sentencing after being convicted of sending electronic messages intended to cause distress or anxiety to Sir Keir Starmer.
Mark Tew, 63, from Camden, was found guilty in June following a trial at Southwark Crown Court on seven counts of sending malicious electronic communications between March and November 2021.
The Charges and The Victims
The court heard that five of these offensive messages were sent directly to Sir Keir Starmer, who was the Labour Party leader at the time and is now the Prime Minister. One message was sent to Stuart Trimmer KC, and another was directed to both Sir Keir and Mr Trimmer.
In a separate charge, Tew was acquitted of sending a similar communication to Dame Priti Patel, the Home Secretary in January 2021.
Unexpected Absence and Next Steps
On Friday, Mr Justice Murray authorised the warrant for Tew's arrest after the defendant did not attend his sentencing hearing.
The court was informed that Tew's defence barrister, Stella Harris, is currently awaiting reports concerning her client's health. No further details about the nature of these health reports were disclosed during the proceedings.
The case highlights the legal consequences of sending malicious electronic communications, particularly when directed at high-profile public figures. Authorities are now tasked with locating Tew to bring the case to its conclusion.
