A man has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after making repeated threats against MP Sam Rushworth, including graphic promises to kill the Labour politician and firebomb his home. Benjamin Clarke, 31, from Bishop Auckland, was also deemed “dangerous” by Teesside Crown Court and handed an additional 18-month extended licence upon release.
Clarke admitted making threats to kill and sending offensive communications, after bombarding Mr Rushworth with abusive messages online, then escalating to violent threats. The case has heightened fears around the safety of public officials, especially following the high-profile murders of MPs Jo Cox and Sir David Amess.
Online abuse escalated into credible murder threats
The court heard Clarke’s campaign of abuse began on 1 August, shortly after riots in Southport, when he blamed Rushworth and the government for the unrest. The threats intensified over the following weeks, culminating in statements to a social worker about smashing the MP’s head on the pavement and setting his home alight.
Despite initially asking police to issue only a warning, Mr Rushworth was later forced to increase security for himself and his family. Clarke’s threats continued even after he was arrested and bailed. He told paramedics he would kill Rushworth and his wife, revealing in-depth knowledge of the MP’s personal life.
Judge condemns ‘vile’ threats and social media supporters
In court, Justice Cotter described Clarke’s threats as “vile” and said the offender had developed a dangerous obsession with killing the MP. He also condemned those who supported Clarke’s Facebook posts and contributed to a toxic online environment.
“No MP should ever face personal threats, harassment or intimidation,” the judge said, warning that the erosion of safety for public officials puts the future of democratic participation at risk.
MP responds with compassion but reinforces need for protection
In a victim impact statement, Mr Rushworth said he bore “no ill will” towards Clarke, believing him to be mentally unwell, but expressed concern over his deep-rooted hatred. “It had become increasingly clear that he had a fixation to kill me for reasons only he knows,” he said.
The threats disrupted Mr Rushworth’s family life and forced him to be accompanied by security at public events, affecting his ability to remain accessible to constituents.
Restraining order issued to protect MP and family
Clarke is now banned from contacting Rushworth or referencing him on social media under an indefinite restraining order. Any future communication with MPs must be approved by the court.
The case underscores growing calls for stronger safeguards for MPs and public figures in the UK, as threats against politicians continue to rise.
