Prince Harry has recently proclaimed a 'Great day for truth and accountability' following his legal triumph over Mirror Group Newspapers (MGN) in the United Kingdom. The court found MGN guilty of illegally intercepting the Prince's voicemails, a practice that had spanned across years and played what His Royal Highness describes as a 'destructive role' in his youth.
His fight against a free, transparent and truthful press continues, even as he savours this decisive victory over 15 cases of appalling invasions into his private life. These intrusive episodes allegedly marred his formative years, inflicting him with feelings of paranoia and depression. The verdict from the judicial proceedings revealed that voicemails had been intercepted and personal data garnered through unethical means.
A statement on behalf of the Prince, given by his lawyer, was full of condemnation and resolve. He compared the fight to 'slaying dragons' and though full of risks, he accentuated its importance in securing a free and honest press. He stated it was a price worth paying and ensured his mission to safeguard privacy is and will continue.
Indicative of his determination, the Prince intends to prompt British authorities to press charges. His legal battles are far from over as he has ongoing cases against other British tabloids. His war against the 'Red Tops' is relentless and far-reaching.
Specifically, the MGN case hovered around stories published in the 1990s and early 2000s. In response to the court's verdict, MGN admitted to historical wrongdoing, issued an unreserved apology, and accepted full responsibility. They also agreed to pay appropriate damages as compensation.
Prince Harry holds the distinction of being the first British royal in nearly 130 years to submit evidence in a court of law when he faced a two-day questioning in June last year. He accused MGN of targeting him for 15 years, however, the judge found evidence only of phone hacking from 2003 to 2009. The court rewarded the Prince with damages amounting to roughly $180,000, a figure modest in monetary terms but substantial in symbolic victory.
With Prince Harry's words echoing in the air, the day stood as a resounding embodiment of truth and accountability. His war is far from over, but it is an important battle won.
