Northampton Woman Considers Legal Action After Release

Download IPFS

Lucy Connolly, a 42-year-old former childminder from Northampton and wife of a local Conservative councillor, has been released from HMP Peterborough after serving part of a 31-month prison sentence for inciting racial hatred online. Connolly pleaded guilty in October 2024 to publishing inflammatory social media content in the aftermath of the Southport terror attack, where she called for arson attacks on migrant accommodation.

Her post was deleted shortly after being published, but prosecutors argued that it was likely to stir up hatred and cause harm. During the investigation, further posts connected to similar views were also identified. Connolly later admitted her actions were “wrong” but described them as a “moment of red mist” rather than a genuine call for violence. Her appeal against the sentence was dismissed by the Court of Appeal in May 2025.

Following her release this week, Connolly told The Telegraph that she is considering legal action against the police. She alleged that officers acted “dishonestly” in how they handled and presented aspects of her case. “That’s something I will be looking into,” she said, while confirming she intends to seek legal advice before taking further steps.

Connolly claimed that her case was handled harshly compared to other incidents, suggesting a political element may have influenced the outcome. She referred to comments made by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has previously called for leniency in cases where offensive content was quickly removed, but who critics allege applied a different standard in her situation. Connolly said this had left her feeling like a “political prisoner.”

Her imprisonment has drawn support from free speech advocates and Reform UK figures, who have argued that the sentence was disproportionate. They pointed to cases where individuals making similar posts received more lenient treatment. However, legal experts have defended the conviction, stating that the offence falls under the Public Order Act, which prohibits incitement to racial hatred in the United Kingdom.

Connolly will remain under licence conditions until the completion of her sentence. She has not ruled out further legal challenges and is seeking legal advice before deciding on any formal claims against the authorities.

This case has reignited discussions about the limits of free expression in the UK, particularly when social media is used to share inflammatory views. It also highlights the debate around sentencing consistency and how public order laws are applied in politically charged cases.