Mum, 28, who called herself ‘Professional Vigilante’ created fake TikTok account accusing ex-boyfriend of abuse
A MUM who called herself the “Professional Vigilante” created a TikTok account to accuse her ex-boyfriend of abuse.
Sophie Hammonds, 28, claimed Paul Fordman bullied her and warned other women to be wary of him.
The bakery worker, of Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, also added his female friends on the video-sharing app so they would see her three clips, which she posted under the banner "justice one way or another".
She included screenshots of her ex's TikTok page with voiceovers describing him as an "abuser of women" and alleging he goes for "younger women he can take advantage of".
Mr Fordman was acquitted of controlling behaviour last year.
Prosecutor Amie Gouldson said of Hammonds' videos: "She clearly wanted to cause distress."
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Mr Fordman said he had been threatened with violence and approached in the street while with his children following the allegations.
He added: “I have felt very vulnerable and helpless. I avoid going out as much as I can.
"My mum has been worried and stressed for my mental wellbeing and physical safety.
"She calls me on the phone every day to ensure that I am safe and that I am ok.”
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Mum-of-two Hammonds admitted harassment at Warrington Magistrates' Court and was banned from contacting Mr Fordman for two years under a restraining order.
Chris Hunt, defending, insisted her actions were "misguided" rather than part of a revenge attack.
He said: "Her intention was to warn others off what she perceived to be the maligned characteristics of her former partner."
And she came across an online post with people congratulating him on being a good father, which upset her, he said.
Mr Hunt added: “She was upset not because of wanting revenge. She was concerned that others would be taken in.
"In retrospect she understands that what she did was wrong and that it constitutes harassment.”
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Chair of the magistrates' bench Andrew Brothers told her: “We know events leading up to this event have had a severe consequence on your health and your employability.
''But whilst we can see that by posting the messages you intended to show your concern to other women, you can't make those kinds of statements - and certainly not on social media.''
