Father Ted co-creator denies harassment charges

Father Ted co-creator Graham Linehan has pleaded not guilty to charges of harassment and criminal damage following an alleged incident involving a transgender woman.

The 56-year-old Irish writer appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court in the UK this afternoon, where he denied allegations of harassing activist Sophia Brooks on social media and damaging her mobile phone.

Court documents state that the alleged harassment occurred between 11 and 27 October last year, with the damage to the phone, valued at £369, said to have happened during the Battle of Ideas conference in London on 19 October.

Mr Linehan, known for his work on Father Ted, The IT Crowd and Black Books, has become a prominent and often controversial voice in public discussions about gender identity and women’s rights.

Dressed in a white shirt, grey suit jacket and jeans, he spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, and to enter not guilty pleas.

He has previously commented on social media that the charges stem from his attendance at the London conference.

Outside court after the short hearing, he wore a T-shirt with a picture of a Daily Telegraph front page with the headline "Trans women are not women", and said: "For six years, ever since I began defending the rights of women and children against a dangerous ideology, I have faced harassment, abuse and threats.

"I've lost a great deal, but I am still here, and I will not waver in my resolve."

Supporters of Mr Linehan were present at the court, although some were unable to gain access due to limited seating.

Deputy District Judge Louise Balmain granted him bail with the condition that he must not contact the complainant, either directly or indirectly.

A trial date has been set for 4 September at the same court.

Source: Press Association