Man sentenced for sending MP email threats

A man who sent a threatening email to a serving MP has been sentenced.

Benjamin Iliffe, 36, from Cambridgeshire, was given a suspended sentence at Huntington Magistrates' Court today (28 October 2021) following an investigation carried out by GMP detectives and colleagues from Cambridgeshire Police.

The threatening email was sent to deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner on Saturday 16 October 2021 from Iliffe's personal account where he told her to "watch your back and your kids".

Iliffe pleaded guilty to malicious communications and possession of cannabis and handed a an 18 month suspended sentence.

He was also given a two year restraining order with conditions not to contact Angela Rayner in any way, not to talk about her on social media and not to visit her constituency office.

Detective Sergeant Christopher Dean, from GMP's Tameside CID, said: "Abusive, threatening or bullying behaviour towards anyone is unacceptable and the threats received would leave anyone in fear - regardless of who they are.

"We will always do what we can to ensure those responsible are identified and held accountable for their behaviour - much like in this case which has seen a man brought to justice.

"I hope this sends a message to those wishing to send threats and abuse online to think again - we will take robust action - people should never live in fear."

Anyone who has been a victim or witnessed a hate crime is asked to report it at the earliest opportunity online or by using our LiveChat service at www.gmp.police.uk.

For victim support and information, visit gmvictims.org.uk. To find out more information and advice about hate crime, visit www.letsendhatecrime.com.