Sentencing adjourned for man who harassed MP
He was bailed til October 15th
A man who admitted harassing an MP has had his sentencing in court adjourned.
Ahmet Hilal, 41, pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to a single charge of harassment to Chris Webb, the Labour MP for Blackpool South, between June 6 and July 14, this year.
But Hilal, who appeared at Preston Magistrates’ Court and followed proceedings via a Turkish interpreter, must have a medical report to assess his mental health before he is sentenced, District Judge Jane Goodwin ruled.
The facts of the case were not outlined by prosecutor Courtney Thompson as the case did not proceed to sentencing.
Judge Goodwin also ordered an up-to-date victim impact statement be obtained from Mr Webb.
The court heard police had attempted to contact the MP but he had not responded.
Judge Goodwin said the effects of the offending on the MP’s lifestyle must be taken into consideration before she can pass sentence and reminded prosecutors they could issue a witness summons if necessary.
Hilal, of Red Bank Road, Bispham, Blackpool, was bailed until October 15, for sentence, on condition he makes no contact with the MP, must live and sleep at his home address each day and co-operate with his mental health assessment.