Conspiracy theorist Matthew Payne to be sentenced tomorrow for assaulting trans activist Denise Friend at Posie Parker rally in Brighton
– 1 min read
Matthew Payne, a known conspiracy theorist and far-right agitator, is set to be sentenced at Brighton Magistrate's Court tomorrow (Friday, 26 September) from 9.30am following his conviction for assaulting trans activist Denise Friend at a Posie Parker rally in Brighton.
The assault occurred during Parker’s “Let Women Speak” event in September 2022, which drew a large counter-protest from LGBTQ+ activists. Payne was filmed shoving Ms Friend with such force that she nearly fell. Despite his claims that the footage was manipulated, the court found the evidence “clear and compelling”.
The sentencing, scheduled for Friday 26 September, is being closely watched by LGBTQ+ advocates who see the case as emblematic of the rising hostility faced by trans people in the UK. Posie Parker, whose real name is Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull, has been widely criticised for her inflammatory rhetoric and for creating spaces where transphobic violence is more likely to occur.
Writing on Instagram, Asher Fynn said they were proud of their mother: "Following a GUILTY ruling against Matthew Payne, who ASSAULTED my mum in 2022, at a Posie Parker ‘Let Women Speak’ event, now it’s time to sentence him.
"My mum’s a fierce and powerful ally. I’m super proud.
“Reminders:
“This “defender of women” is a DANGEROUS MAN who assaulted a woman at a ‘women’s rights rally’ (the irony)
“The assault was documented by a TERF and uploaded onto her blog. This video became the evidence.
“Payne’s defence in court was laughable, inconsistent and inappropriate.
“Despite “not being religious” he swore on his personal bible and claimed he walked Jesus’ footsteps.
“He prepared and EDITED his “evidence” in the courtroom and wanted to show a one-hour video.
“His legal aid dropped him due to racism.
“Payne’s witness Michael Chavez, was found to be lacking credibility. The other two didn’t bother doing it on the day.”
