Manchester man sentenced for threatening messages on social media about an author and an MP

A man has been given a suspended prison sentence after admitting posting threatening messages about an author and an MP in January last year.

Glenn Mullen, 31, uploaded an audio clip to social media which contained a threat to kill a member of parliament. He also uploaded a second audio clip and made similar threats to kill a prominent author.

The messages, which were in Gaelic, were reported by a fellow social media user.

Mullen was traced from his social media accounts and arrested. He made no comment in his first police interview, but later admitted that he had made the comments.

He claimed that he posted the messages in Gaelic as he thought nobody would be able to read them.

He was sentenced to eight weeks' imprisonment, suspended for two years, on 4 June 2024 at Westminster Magistrates' Court. He was also given a 12-month Community Order with 150 hours unpaid work and 20 Rehabilitation days.

John Moran, Senior Crown Prosecutor for CPS North West said: "The messages uploaded to social media were targeted and very concerning.

"The audio clips have had a significant impact on the two victims, who described feeling upset, worried and distressed when they heard them.

"Nobody has the right to issue threats or abuse, whether that be in person or via social media."