MP Harassment Case Ends in Prison Sentence
A woman has been sentenced to 26 weeks in prison for conducting a harassment campaign against Ellie Reeves, the MP for Lewisham West and East Dulwich. Tracey Smith, 58, sent the solicitor general 22 emails and 10 voicemails containing threatening language and false accusations between July and October 2024.
Threatening Communications and False Claims
The court heard how Smith's messages included inflammatory phrases such as "bullets will be flying around" and described the MP as "transphobic". In one particularly disturbing claim, Smith accused Reeves' sister, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, of physically assaulting her at a buffet bar.
District Judge Michael Snow, presiding over the case at Westminster Magistrates' Court, described the language used as "inflammatory and threatening". He noted that Smith continued her campaign even after being explicitly told to stop, demonstrating deliberate planning and intent to cause maximum distress.
Impact on Democratic Duties
The harassment had significant consequences for the MP's work and personal life. Ellie Reeves testified that the communications were "upsetting me, it was upsetting my staff. It just felt like it wasn't going to stop".
Judge Snow emphasised the wider implications, stating the harassment represented "a direct attack upon democracy". The court heard how Reeves was forced to make substantial changes to her routine, including no longer travelling by foot or public transport in her constituency and requiring protection officers.
Smith had previously managed to obtain a witness summons from a county court, which the MP only avoided through legal intervention from House of Commons lawyers. The defendant also made allegations against local council officials, doctors and police during her campaign.
Sentencing and Restraining Order
On Friday, Smith received her 26-week prison sentence and was ordered to pay £650 in costs. Additionally, District Judge Snow imposed a restraining order with no time limit, preventing any future contact with the MP.
Despite Smith's claims that she was merely seeking help from her MP, the judge found her guilty of harassment following a one-day trial last month. The case highlights the increasing security concerns facing elected representatives while performing their democratic duties.
