Justice for Manchester Arena survivors: Harassment lawsuit triumphs

In a historic legal victory, two survivors of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing have successfully sued conspiracy theorist Richard Hall. Martin Hibbert, paralyzed from the waist down, and his daughter Eve, who was seriously injured, were the targets of Hall’s baseless claims that the attack was staged.

As with the cases against American conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, this lawsuit marks a significant effort to protect victims from harassment. Judge Karen Steyn ruled that Hall’s actions, which included publishing a book and videos alleging government involvement in the bombings, constituted harassment.

Martin Hibbert expressed hope that this decision will protect others from similar unfounded attacks. Hall disputed the charges, citing the right to free speech, but the court found his actions a reckless abuse of media freedom. A hearing on possible damages and an injunction are scheduled for Nov. 8.

(With input from agencies.)