A judge has warned bloggers and social media users that they face serious consequences if they publish anything that could jeopardise the trial of a 15-year-old boy accused of murdering a teacher. The teenager, who cannot be named, appeared via videolink at Leeds Crown Court on Friday charged with stabbing to death 61-year-old Ann Maguire.
The defendant was remanded in custody after his barrister did not apply for bail, and a provisional trial date was set for 3 November. The boy spoke only to confirm his name and to say he understood the proceedings. Due to his age, barristers and the judge sat without wigs and gowns, and some normal protocols were dispensed with.
Prosecutor Paul Greaney QC urged the judge to warn the public and media about the boy's right to a fair trial. He said the case had generated 'public concern and public interest in equal measure', and noted extensive comment online. Greaney stressed that any publication creating a substantial risk of serious prejudice could amount to contempt of court, applying not only to news organisations but also to users of social media and bloggers.
Judge Geoffrey Marson QC reiterated the warning, saying bloggers and social media users were 'just as much bound by these rules as the press'. He emphasised that consequences for individuals could be serious if there was a breach. Under English law, the child is entitled to anonymity, though the judge agreed it would be absurd to omit that the charges related to Maguire's death at Corpus Christi College.
Separately, West Yorkshire Police confirmed a second teenager was arrested on Thursday in connection with the killing but later released without charge. The force said the arrest was understood to be related to online banter before the attack, but the boy claimed it related to a computer game.
