Former Warrington Wolves and England rugby league international Michael Cooper, 38, has pleaded guilty to two counts of stalking involving fear of violence at Liverpool Crown Court. The ex-prop forward, who also played for Wigan Warriors, appeared in court on Friday where he admitted to targeting two complainants, Imogen Walker and Benjamin Howarth, between November and December 2024.
Stalking Campaign Details
The court heard that Cooper wrote abusive notes and attached them to Ms Walker's car, etched words into the vehicle's panels, and damaged her tyres. He also hurled verbal abuse at the complainants, their friends and family, loitered outside Ms Walker's home, and spied on Mr Howarth.
Cooper, from Stansfield Drive in Grappenhall near Warrington, entered not guilty pleas to two counts of stalking causing distress against the same individuals. However, prosecutor Matthew Dixon said the crown would not pursue a trial on those charges, which are expected to lie on file when Cooper is sentenced.
Defence and Medical Evidence
Defence lawyer Donal McGuire requested a postponement for a pre-sentence report from the Probation Service and a medical report of a neurological nature. He told the court that Cooper's neurological damage, sustained during his rugby career, was well-documented. "He was the first player of either code (of rugby) to retire on the basis of that neurological damage," McGuire said.
Judge Andrew Menary KC, the Recorder of Liverpool, adjourned proceedings, telling Cooper: "The purpose is so reports can be prepared and for any medical and character evidence to be acquired." Cooper, who attended court without support, was granted conditional bail and will be sentenced on August 21 at the same court.
Cooper's Rugby Career
Cooper, a local Warrington talent, made over 270 appearances for the Wolves across two stints. The 17-stone prop forward also played for St George Illawarra Dragons in Australia and finished his career at Wigan Warriors. He retired immediately after medical advice following a concussion injury sustained in a match against Leigh Leopards.
Over nearly two decades, Cooper represented England several times and was part of the 2021 World Cup squad. He won back-to-back Super League titles with Wigan and four Challenge Cup trophies with Warrington. He was awarded a testimonial for the Wolves and named in the Super League dream team in 2020. His club praised his "powerful offensive" and noted he "rarely missed a tackle in defence."
