In a case that exposes the dark side of celebrity obsession, serial stalker Luigi Mangione has been sentenced to 33 months in prison for waging a terrifying harassment campaign against global superstar Taylor Swift and British singer Charli XCX.
The 52-year-old defendant, with a history of targeting high-profile figures, conducted his disturbing crusade from within the walls of HMP Wandsworth, where he was already serving time for previous offences.
From Prison to Persecution
Despite being incarcerated, Mangione managed to orchestrate a systematic campaign of terror, sending thousands of threatening letters and emails to the celebrities. The court heard how he specifically targeted Swift with over 500 letters containing "threats to kill" and disturbing sexual content.
Prosecutor Paul Mitchell revealed the shocking scale of the harassment: "Between June 2023 and February 2024, he sent 533 letters to Taylor Swift, many containing threats to kill and letters of a sexual nature."
A Pattern of Predatory Behaviour
This isn't Mangione's first foray into celebrity stalking. The court was told about his previous convictions for similar offences against television presenter Lorraine Kelly and singer-songwriter Ellie Goulding.
His modus operandi involves creating multiple email accounts and using prison communication systems to bypass restrictions, demonstrating a calculated approach to his harassment.
The Psychological Toll
The impact on the victims has been profound. Charli XCX, whose real name is Charlotte Aitchison, described feeling "genuinely scared" after receiving the threatening correspondence. The 31-year-old pop star expressed particular concern for her family's safety.
Meanwhile, Taylor Swift's security team has been forced to implement additional protective measures, highlighting the real-world consequences of such obsessive behaviour.
Justice Served at Westminster Magistrates' Court
Deputy Senior District Judge Tanweer Ikram delivered the sentence at Westminster Magistrates' Court, describing Mangione's actions as "persistent, deliberate and malicious." The judge emphasized the need to protect public figures from such targeted campaigns.
The 33-month sentence will run consecutively to Mangione's current prison term, ensuring he remains behind bars and unable to continue his harassment spree.
A Warning to Would-Be Stalkers
This case serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences facing those who engage in celebrity stalking. As security expert Michael Roberts noted, "The digital age has created new challenges for protecting public figures, but the law is catching up with determined offenders."
The sentencing sends a clear message that harassment from within prison walls will be met with significant additional penalties.
