Upper Beeding woman guilty of harassing neighbour

Sentencing took place at Chichester magistrates court on Wednesday 16 December. Clare Rogers of Priors Close, Upper Beeding was issued with a restraining order against the victim, ordered to complete 100 hours of community work and to pay compensation and court costs totalling more than £1700.

It’s after nearly 30 anonymous complaints were made to the NSPCC against 33-year-old David Malony, also of Priors Close, alleging child neglect and abuse, none of which were true.

Speaking after the trial Mr Malony said: “The last few years have been incredibly difficult and stressful for me and my family.

“It has been emotionally draining but I am pleased with the court’s decision and look forward to now getting on with the rest of my life.”

PC Steven Hargrave said: “I want to stress that we take all child abuse allegations extremely seriously and this case was investigated thoroughly.

“However it soon became clear that Mr Malony and his family were being targeted by someone using the internet to make malicious allegations.

“I am delighted that the Magistrates have seen this crime for what it is, a campaign conducted with the belief that anonymous means untraceable.”

“I would urge anyone with genuine concerns about the welfare of children to contact police on 101 or dial 999 in an emergency.”

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