Man, 21, becomes first ‘revenge porn’ conviction

A man has been convicted of posting 'revenge porn' on messenger service WhatsApp. Picture: PA

The Crown Prosecution Service said the jailing of Luke King for 12 weeks was a sharp reminder that such offences will be taken seriously by the authorities.

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King, of Calcroft Close, Aspley, was arrested after uploading intimate photographs of the woman onto the internet in August this year.

Southern Derbyshire Magistrates’ Court heard that King, who pleaded guilty to harassment without violence, published the images after making a series of threats to the victim. King was also issued with a restraining order, preventing him from contacting the woman.

In a statement issued by the East Midlands branch of the CPS, its District Crown Prosecutor Peter Shergill described the offence as vindictive.

Mr Shergill said: “Prosecutors are now following guidance issued in October this year that clarifies how we can use existing legislation to prosecute perpetrators of these intrusive offences.

“In this instance, because Luke King had threatened his victim and posted multiple pictures of her on social media, a charge of harassment was brought.

“He pleaded guilty to the offence and has been imprisoned and the victim now has the reassurance of a restraining order that will prevent any further contact from King.

“This is the first case of its kind in Derbyshire since the new guidelines came into effect and is a sharp reminder that these offences will be taken seriously and we will use a range of legislation to secure justice for its victims.

“I would like to thank the victim for her courage in bringing this matter to the attention of the authorities and her support in bringing Luke King to justice.”

A spokesman for Derbyshire Police advised members of the public to think very carefully before sharing intimate images with others.

The spokesman added: “It’s important for people to realise that it is an offence to harass others in this way.

“We agree with the judge that it was a despicable thing to do, especially after Luke King received warnings to stop. Anyone who is subjected to this type of crime should keep the evidence and contact the police as soon as possible.”

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