A man faces charges for sending harmful communications to MP Jess Phillips amid rising tensions in UK politics
Devon: A man has been charged for sending nasty messages to Jess Phillips, a Labour MP. This comes after a few reports of similar incidents involving different victims.
Just hours before the charge, Keir Starmer stood up for Phillips, saying the far right’s actions have led to serious threats against her. He made these comments after a speech on NHS reform in Epsom, where he was asked about the attacks on both himself and Phillips.
The whole thing kicked off on social media, thanks to Elon Musk, after Phillips turned down a national inquiry into the Asian grooming gangs scandal. The troubling messages were sent between April 2024 and January 2025, with the latest incident happening this month, right after Musk accused her of being a “rape genocide apologist.”
Starmer passionately defended Phillips, who Musk had insulted, calling her a “witch” and saying she should be jailed. He also highlighted his record in prosecuting grooming gang cases and criticized the spread of misinformation online.
He pointed out that those spreading lies aren’t really interested in helping victims but are just seeking attention. Starmer emphasized that Phillips has done more for victims of sexual abuse than her critics could ever imagine.
He expressed concern over the far-right’s influence, stating that serious threats against Phillips cross a line. Starmer believes that political debates should be based on facts, not lies.
He also took a jab at the Conservative Party for not standing up for Phillips and for seemingly supporting Musk. Starmer made it clear that the government is focused on protecting victims, especially those of sexual abuse.
In a statement, Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed the charges relate to malicious communications sent over several months involving three victims.
