Judge refuses to stop ITN and The Guardian exposing a public figure accused of targeting young women despite his vow to kill himself
The Royal Courts of Justice in London. Mr Justice Nicklin is due to rule at 2pm on whether ITN and The Guardian may publish sexual abuse allegations against the celebrity known only as PPT.Mr Justice Nicklin, who ruled that the hospital detaining PPT under the Mental Health Act bore legal responsibility for his safety, not the court.
The man, known only as PPT, never argued the allegations were false. His case to Mr Justice Nicklin was that publication would drive him to take his own life. He is detained under the Mental Health Act and has previously attempted suicide. The investigation alleges he used his status over years to target young women, some far younger than him, in conduct that could in places be criminal; he broadly denies it.
ITN and Guardian reporters interviewed more than 100 people, over 30 with first-hand accounts, before legal review.
Dr Inti Qurashi, the court's single joint psychiatric expert, found a heightened suicide risk existing regardless of publication.
Mr Justice Nicklin rejected an 18-month delay on PPT's exposé, finding uncertainty would only prolong his distress.
