Cyber Crime
Cyber-Farting Scandal: UK Woman Sentenced for Unbelievable Digital Harassment
In an unprecedented legal case, a 25-year-old UK woman has pleaded guilty to what has been described as ‘cyber-farting’—a strange form of online harassment.
Rhiannon Evans admitted to sending multiple videos of herself passing gas to her boyfriend’s ex-partner, Deborah Prytherech, leading to a court ruling that has gained widespread attention.
The court sentenced Evans to a 12-month community order and imposed a two-year restraining order, barring her from contacting Prytherech. Additionally, she must attend 15 rehabilitation sessions and undergo a 60-day alcohol abstinence period.
What Really Happened?
The unusual incident occurred over the Christmas and New Year period, from December 22nd to January 1st.
During this time, Evans repeatedly sent Prytherech explicit videos of herself farting, each time looking directly at the camera with a smirk. Prosecutor Diane Williams explained in court that the videos were deemed “indecent or grossly offensive,” causing Prytherechsignificant distress and anxiety.
One of the videos was described in court: “She proceeds to pass gas by placing the camera on her bottom and passing the gas.” This continued for several days, prompting Prytherech to involve the police.
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Defense vs. Prosecution
Evans’ defense attorney, Harriet Gorst, argued that her client did not intend to be malicious but was caught up in the ongoing tensions between Evans’ partner and Prytherech over child custody. She further claimed that Evans had been drinking at the time and did not realize the distress she was causing.
“At the time she sent these videos, she had some drinks and sent them, understanding now that this has caused the victim some distress. She sent them without malicious intent,” Gorst stated.
However, the prosecution refuted this argument. Williams, representing the Crown, stated, “It was purely malicious. She was smirking throughout and found it hilarious, but the victim didn’t.”
The Victim Speaks Out
For Prytherech, the impact was serious. In her victim impact statement, she expressed feeling unsafe and deeply disturbed by the messages.
“I just want to feel safe in my home,” she said, emphasizing how the repeated harassment affected her sense of security.
The court ruled in her favor, ordering Evans to pay £100 in compensation and £199 in court costs. Along with financial penalties, Evans must complete rehabilitation sessions and abstain from alcohol for two months.
A Legal First?
While the term “cyber-farting” might sound comical, this case sheds light on how online harassment can take many different forms, and the courts are willing to step in when it causes genuine distress. Legal experts note that this ruling demonstrates a growing awareness of digital misconduct and its real-world consequences.
Cases of online harassment are often linked to verbal abuse or threats, but this ruling broadens the scope of what can be considered offensive. It sends a clear message that any form of targeted harassment—no matter how unusual—can lead to legal consequences.
The case of Rhiannon Evans highlights the unexpected ways in which online interactions can go wrong. While some may dismiss the case as absurd, it ultimately underscores a critical message: harassment, in any form, is unacceptable.