Journalist Speaks Out After ‘Needs Raping’ Social Media Post

A female reporter has said that vile abuse and threats against journalists is becoming “all too common” after being the target of a “needs raping” post on Facebook.

In a piece for Behind Local News Amy Fenton, a reporter on The Mail in Cumbria, said the criticism and abuse had “become increasingly sinister” in the last three years.

Amy said: “Over the last two years I’ve resorted to reporting the most serious and offensive of these comments (most of which are made on social media which will come as no surprise) to the police. And I’ve been disappointed to have been told, in the vast majority of cases, that no further action will be taken.

“By this point I was doubtful that anything would be done, given my past experiences, but I reported it to the police here in Cumbria.”

A Salford man pleaded guilty to a malicious communications offence and was sentenced to 20 weeks in jail on 26 February after posting ‘Amy Fenton needs raping’ on The Mail’s Facebook page.

Amy added: “I was keen for the outcome to be reported so that not only would those who continue to direct abuse at reporters see action being taken but also to encourage other reporters to have the confidence to involve the authorities when subjected to similar.

“For far too long reporters have been subjected to vile comments and threats simply for doing their job.

“This has got to stop. Something needs to be done to protect and preserve our ability to report on issues in the public interest, including court cases.

“If nothing changes then it will effectively be another, understandable, reason why anyone considering a career in journalism will choose another profession. And, let’s face it, our industry has enough obstacles to overcome as it is.

“But in order for things to change, and in order for these vile, pathetic losers to appreciate the consequences of their actions, as reporters we need to report to the police when we feel threatened, intimidated or frightened.

“I just hope that my own experience helps to encourage other reporters to recognise when a line has been crossed and to give them the confidence to report anything which goes too far.”