Summary
Benjamin Clarke was sentenced to one and a half years in jail for making threats to kill MP Sam Rushworth and sending abusive messages. Clarke, who has mental health issues, admitted to making threats and will also serve an additional 18 months on extended license.
Key Facts
- Benjamin Clarke, aged 31, threatened to harm Sam Rushworth, a Member of Parliament (MP) for Bishop Auckland.
- Clarke admitted to making threats to kill and sending offensive communications online.
- He threatened to burn down the MP's house with him inside and made other violent comments.
- Clarke expressed his actions were due to his mental health struggles and personal grievances.
- The threats began in August after Clarke contacted Rushworth on Facebook.
- Sam Rushworth was elected as a Labour MP in the 2024 general election.
- Clarke was previously released on bail but re-arrested after making further threats.
- Mr. Rushworth increased his personal and family security following the threats.
