High Court Awards Damages After False Accusations of Fraud
Environmentalist and TV naturalist Chris Packham has expressed his relief and vindication following a High Court ruling that favored him in a libel case against two men. The ruling comes after Packham was accused of defrauding the public in connection with fundraising efforts to rescue tigers.
Packham successfully sued three men for libel over nine articles that claimed he “manipulated” donations while knowing the tigers were already well cared for. The articles included various serious allegations, such as claims that he promoted a crowdfunding campaign during the COVID pandemic and even fabricated an arson attack on his home.
In a judgment delivered by Mr. Justice Saini, Packham was awarded £90,000 in damages, which he plans to donate to charity. The court found that he did not lie and that his statements were made with a genuine belief in their truth. However, the claim against Paul Read was dismissed, as he claimed to be a “mere proofreader” of the articles.
Speaking outside the Royal Courts of Justice, Packham highlighted the severity of the accusations he faced, which included bullying and sexual misconduct. He noted that while the ruling was a significant victory, the ongoing abuse he receives due to his advocacy for wildlife and environmental reform remains a concern.
Packham emphasized the need for legal reform, particularly regarding online abuse, and called for a robust Online Safety Bill to protect individuals from harassment. He remarked, “Every day at this moment, people across this country and all over the world are suffering online abuse, and it’s ruining their lives.”
His victory in court is seen as a stand against the calculated campaign designed to “destroy” him, and he hopes it inspires others to confront similar challenges. Packham concluded by expressing his commitment to using the awarded damages to support charities focused on wild animal welfare and advocating for necessary changes in the law to combat online hate.
