FORMER MP KATIE WALLIS FACES COURT OVER HARASSMENT CHARGES
A former Conservative MP, Katie Wallis, who is transgender and uses she/her pronouns, appeared in Cardiff Magistrates' Court accused of harassing her ex-wife Rebecca Wallis.Wallis, who served as MP for Bridgend from 2019 to 2024, pleaded not guilty to charges of harassment.
The charges relate to incidents between February 14 and March 21 of this year, where Wallis allegedly harassed Rebecca by sending unwanted messages and voice notes, making unwelcome phone calls, and driving past her home.
The Crown Prosecution Service has withdrawn the original stalking charge and replaced it with harassment.
Wallis's barrister, Narita Bahra KC, argued that her client's mental health had 'spiralled' and that she made no attempt to harass her ex-wife, emphasizing that her client was going through a crucial stage of her transition process, which involved coming out full-time and dressing as a woman.
Bahra stated that her client saw her ex-wife as her 'only emotional support' and was 'reaching out to her.' The trial was postponed when it was found that it could not be concluded in the scheduled time, with a new date set for June 17.
During the hearing, Wallis appeared uncomfortable and stumbled while standing in the dock, revealing she suffers from claustrophobia.
The case highlights ongoing issues between Wallis and her ex-wife, including a long-term relationship of over 15 years, which ended in 2020 with a final divorce in 2024.
Despite being arrested on February 28, Wallis continued to send messages to Rebecca, which the prosecution claims amounted to harassment.
The court also installed a felt screen to allow Rebecca Wallis to give evidence privately, and Wallis's barrister attempted to get the charges dismissed due to weak evidence, but the application was withdrawn.
Wallis has expressed that she is in good mental health now and is engaged in the legal process, which remains ongoing.
