In a landmark ruling, a British judge has found that Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN) engaged in “extensive” phone hacking and other illegal activities in its pursuit of stories about Prince Harry. The ruling is a major victory for Harry, who has long accused the tabloid press of intrusion into his privacy.
The Case
Harry sued MGN in 2020, alleging that the company had hacked his voicemails and illegally obtained information about him from other sources. The case was the latest in a series of lawsuits filed by celebrities and public figures against the British tabloid press in recent years.
The Ruling
In a judgment issued on December 15, 2023, High Court Judge Mark Warby ruled that MGN had hacked Harry’s voicemails on a “habitual and widespread” basis. He also found that the company had obtained other information about Harry illegally, including by accessing his private bank records and intercepting his communications with his lawyers.
The judge awarded Harry £140,000 (approximately $180,000) in damages. He also ordered MGN to publish a front-page apology in its newspapers.
The Significance of the Ruling
The ruling is a significant victory for Harry and a blow to the British tabloid press. It is the first time that a judge has found that a British newspaper has hacked a member of the royal family. The ruling is also likely to have a chilling effect on the activities of the tabloid press, as it will make it more difficult for them to obtain information illegally.
Harry’s Reaction
Harry said in a statement that he was “pleased with the outcome” of the case. He said that he was “deeply grateful” to the judge for his “commitment to justice.”
MGN’s Reaction
MGN said in a statement that it was “disappointed” with the ruling. The company said that it is “considering its options” but did not specify whether it would appeal the decision.
The Aftermath
The ruling is likely to have a significant impact on the British tabloid press. It is possible that other celebrities and public figures will be encouraged to bring lawsuits against the press for illegal activities. It is also possible that the government will take steps to regulate the press more closely.
The Case Has Implications for the United States
The ruling in Harry’s case is also likely to have implications for the United States, where there have been a number of recent high-profile cases of phone hacking and other illegal activities by the press. The ruling could embolden victims of press intrusion in the United States to come forward and seek justice.
Conclusion
The ruling in Harry’s case is a major victory for privacy and a blow to the British tabloid press. It is a reminder that the press has a responsibility to protect the privacy of others, and that it will be held accountable for its actions.