What's happened
Edward Brandt, 61, was convicted of stalking former MP Penny Mordaunt after sending emails, voicemails, and attempting to meet her. He was acquitted of the more serious offence of causing serious alarm or distress. Sentencing is scheduled for January 16, 2026.
What's behind the headline?
The conviction highlights the persistent challenge of addressing obsessive behaviour towards public figures. Brandt's actions, driven by a desire to connect politically, crossed into harassment, illustrating how personal motivations can escalate into security concerns. The case underscores the importance of enforcement of protective orders and the need for public officials to have robust security measures. The jury's decision to convict on stalking but acquit on causing serious alarm suggests a nuanced legal distinction, yet the emotional impact on Mordaunt demonstrates the real-world consequences of such behaviour. This case will likely influence future legal standards and protective protocols for politicians and public figures, emphasizing that even seemingly benign intentions can become threatening when boundaries are ignored.
What the papers say
Sky News reports that Brandt's actions included multiple emails and voicemails, and his attempt to meet Mordaunt was deemed obsessive and creepy by the court. The Independent highlights that Brandt claimed his behaviour was entirely political and harmless, and he was diagnosed with ADHD and on the autism spectrum. The Guardian emphasizes the emotional toll on Mordaunt, who described her fear of sexual violence and the impact on her security routines. All sources agree that the case reflects ongoing concerns about personal safety for politicians and the importance of legal protections against stalking.
How we got here
Brandt, a former councillor and political supporter, repeatedly contacted Penny Mordaunt between September 2023 and May 2024, despite a conditional caution and a stalking protection order. His actions included emails, phone messages, and attempting to meet her at her office, which caused her to fear for her safety.
Go deeper
Common question
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What Are the Legal Consequences of Stalking MPs in the UK?
Stalking politicians in the UK can lead to serious legal consequences, especially when it involves harassment or threats. Recent cases highlight how the law handles such situations and what it means for political safety. Curious about how these cases are prosecuted and what penalties exist? Below, we answer common questions about stalking laws, notable cases, and what this means for political security in the UK.
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What Are the Legal Consequences of Stalking in the UK?
Stalking is a serious crime that can have severe legal consequences in the UK. Recent cases, like that of Penny Mordaunt's stalker, highlight the importance of understanding what constitutes stalking and how the law protects victims. If you're wondering about the legal risks, protections, or how common stalking is, this page covers all you need to know.
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