61-Year-Old Convicted of Stalking Ex-Tory Minister Penny Mordaunt

A 61-year-old man has been convicted of stalking Penny Mordaunt, the former Conservative MP and leader of the House of Commons. Edward Brandt, who previously served as a councillor, was found guilty after repeatedly harassing Mordaunt with emails, voicemails, and an attempted breach of security at her office.

Details of the Stalking Case

The court heard that Brandt stalked Mordaunt from September 2023 to May 2024. In December 2023, he attempted to jump a security barrier at her office in Portsmouth but was stopped by security personnel. Mordaunt described her fear for personal safety during her testimony, stating that she had to alter her daily routines for protection.

• Brandt sent numerous emails and voicemails to Mordaunt.
• Ten of his messages included references to wanting to shake her hand.
• Mordaunt enlisted colleagues to escort her to her car due to safety concerns.
• She had to change her office security measures and refrain from using public transport.

Mordaunt’s Concerns

Mordaunt testified that Brandt’s conduct had a profound impact on her and her family. She expressed concern for her foster child, warning them not to open the front door due to fears that Brandt might come to their home. Mordaunt served as MP for Portsmouth North from 2010 until losing her seat to Amanda Martin in 2024.

Brandt’s Defense and Conviction

During the trial, Brandt claimed that his interest in Mordaunt was purely political and congratulatory. He maintained that he posed no threat of sexual violence, asserting that his actions were harmless. However, the jury convicted him of stalking, acquitting him of a more serious charge related to serious alarm or distress.

Following the five-day trial, Brandt broke down in court after the verdict was delivered. He is scheduled for sentencing in January 2025.

Mordaunt’s Statement

In her evidence, Mordaunt described Brandt’s behavior as obsessive and concerning, stating: “It is clear that this is not a normal pattern of behaviour.” She shared her belief that he posed a real threat and expressed her dismay about his fixation on her physical appearance.

Mordaunt emphasized the unsettling nature of Brandt’s messages, noting that while there were no direct threats, his behavior deeply affected her well-being and that of her team. She said, “The legacy of what he did was very profound.”

The case highlights the serious implications of stalking and the impact it can have on an individual’s life and mental health.