High Court denies injunction to keep celebrity's identity hidden in sexual misconduct case

A High Court judge dismissed an injunction request filed by a prominent individual seeking to prevent Independent Television News (ITN) and The Guardian from reporting allegations that he abused his power to engage in inappropriate sexual activities with multiple women. The court ruled that the claim was dismissed and the injunction refused, although an interim order preserving his anonymity remains until he decides whether to appeal.

Mr Justice Nicklin noted that the claimant is currently unwell and may not be able to determine an appeal at this time, but he retains the right to take the case to the Court of Appeal. The allegations, which the media say were gathered after a wide-ranging investigation involving more than 100 witnesses, include claims that the man used his status to contact young women for exploitative sexual conduct.

Representing the claimant, Sara Mansoori KC argued that publishing the allegations could have a fatal impact on his mental health, citing two prior suicide attempts and ongoing hospital detention. She emphasized that the claimant denies any wrongdoing and has no intention of returning to public life.

Gavin Millar KC, counsel for ITN and Guardian News and Media, countered that there is no legal precedent requiring courts to suppress speech on the basis of potential suicidal impulses, stating that the responsibility for the claimant's safety lies with medical professionals. He argued that the proposed publication would contribute to a debate of public importance about the misuse of power by men against women, and that the public interest in the allegations is strong.