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March 24, 2014

Crime reporters take note: Man fined £400 for taking ‘selfie’ in court

By Cleland Thom

A man took a ‘selfie’ in court – and became the latest victim of the law that has prevented journalists taking photos in court for decades.

Daniel Lee Thomas’ took the image in the public gallery of a crown court – and posted it on Facebook.

He even made sure judge Peter Heywood, and the court crest, were in the background.

The judge at Mold Crown Court, Wales, didn’t give him a Facebook ‘Like’ though. Instead, he reported Thomas, who was arrested and had his phone seized by police.

He was later fined £400 by Flint magistrates.

Thomas, of Mold Road, Connah’s Quay apologised and said he did not know taking pictures was illegal.

He got his phone back, though.

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Cleland Thom is author law of the eBook: Internet law for journalists.

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