NEAL BLIGHE'S HORRIFIC ONLINE TERROR IN BISHOP AUCKLAND

Neal Blighe, a 48-year-old man from Bishop Auckland, has faced legal action after subjecting a woman to a relentless campaign of online harassment through Facebook. The disturbing series of messages, which were both vile and abusive, began more than a year after the end of their romantic relationship, highlighting a troubling pattern of stalking and emotional abuse.

During court proceedings at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court, it was revealed that Blighe had sent a barrage of offensive messages throughout February and March of this year. Among the allegations, he was accused of calling the woman a derogatory term, "c***," and making further offensive comments aimed at her. Prosecutor Charlie Thompson disclosed that Blighe also alluded to the possibility of releasing a sex-related video of the woman, a threat that he claimed was made out of concern that he would face imprisonment if he proceeded with such an act.

The court heard that Blighe owned multiple properties and was planning to relocate after securing a new job in Somerset, indicating his intentions to leave Bishop Auckland and the surrounding area. Representing himself in court, Blighe pleaded guilty to the charge of stalking, which involved a pattern of intimidating and harassing behavior between February 2 and March 12 of this year.

District Judge Marie Mallon sentenced Blighe to an 18-month community order. This included 25 days of rehabilitation activities aimed at addressing his behavior. Additionally, she ordered him to pay £199 in court costs. To further protect the victim, a 12-month restraining order was issued, preventing Blighe from making any contact with her.

The woman, who was subjected to this distressing ordeal, shared her emotional response, revealing that Blighe’s actions had severely impacted her mental health. She described her life as miserable and admitted to feeling suicidal due to the messages she received. She characterized the messages as "disgusting" and explained that they caused her to develop anxiety, a condition she had not previously experienced. Despite her pleas for him to cease his harassment, Blighe continued to ignore her, prompting her to involve the police in an effort to seek protection.

This case underscores the serious nature of online harassment and stalking, emphasizing the importance of protective measures for victims. The court’s decision reflects the need to address such behavior firmly, ensuring that victims are safeguarded from further harm and that offenders are held accountable for their actions.