Thomas Mearing, 26, has been given a suspended prison sentence after pleading guilty to a public communications offense in connection with an abusive voicemail left for Labour MP Naz Shah. Mearing, from Yeovil, Somerset, was sentenced by Taunton Magistrates’ Court on January 30, 2025, to 12 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months. He was also issued a five-year restraining order prohibiting him from contacting Ms. Shah or visiting her office.
The incident occurred on November 19, 2023, when Mearing left a voicemail accusing the Bradford West MP of supporting Hamas, along with other derogatory comments. The voicemail was left on Ms. Shah’s constituency office phone after the call was redirected to voicemail over the weekend. The message was heard by Ms. Shah’s staff on the following Monday and subsequently reported to West Yorkshire Police. After an investigation, officers traced the voicemail to Mearing.
In his police interview, Mearing admitted to leaving the message but insisted he did not intend to cause harm. Despite this, he pleaded guilty to sending an offensive communication.
Alex Herowych, Senior District Crown Prosecutor for the South West, emphasized the distinction between robust criticism and abusive behavior, stating that MPs should not have to endure hateful messages.
Ms. Shah responded to the verdict, expressing that such abuse was “completely unacceptable” and underscoring the need for MPs and their staff to perform their duties without fear of harassment. She also acknowledged the serious risk faced by MPs, given the current threat level.
Mearing’s sentence serves as a reminder that MPs are protected by law from abusive communication, and individuals who engage in such behavior face legal consequences.
