Worthing Man Jailed for Malicious Communications Ahead of Brighton Protest

A Worthing man has been sentenced to 14 weeks in prison for publishing malicious communications related to a planned protest in Brighton.

Joseph Clark, 45, was found guilty of sending an offensive message via a public communication network.

The case emerged after police were alerted to a concerning social media post on Tuesday, 6 August, which referenced potential violent disorder associated with the protest scheduled for the following day. In response, law enforcement authorities arrested two men from Worthing, aged 42 and 45. While the 42-year-old was released without further action, Clark, residing on Hayling Rise, was charged and later convicted at Brighton Magistrates’ Court.

Assistant Chief Constable Paul Court highlighted the significance of the custodial sentence, emphasising that online threats have real-world consequences. He urged the public to report any concerns to Sussex Police as they continue to monitor and prepare for any potential incidents across the region in the future.