Former Councillor Jailed for Stalking Ex-MP Penny Mordaunt
Published 16 January 2026
Highlights
- Edward Brandt, a former councillor, was sentenced to 20 weeks in jail for stalking former MP Penny Mordaunt.
- The incidents occurred between September 2023 and May 2024, involving emails, phone messages, and visits to Mordaunt's office.
- Mordaunt expressed fear of "sexual violence" due to Brandt's behavior, leading to increased security measures.
- Brandt was also sentenced for breaching a stalking protection order by failing to notify police of internet-capable devices.
- Judge Mousley emphasized the significant impact on Mordaunt and the risk of Brandt reoffending.
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Rewritten Article
Headline: Former Councillor Jailed for Stalking Ex-MP Penny Mordaunt
Edward Brandt, a former councillor from Lymington, Hampshire, has been sentenced to 20 weeks in prison for stalking former Conservative MP Penny Mordaunt. The sentencing took place at Southampton Crown Court, where Brandt was found guilty of sending multiple emails and phone messages to Mordaunt and making unannounced visits to her Portsmouth office between September 2023 and May 2024.
Stalking Incidents and Legal Proceedings
Brandt, 61, was convicted of stalking but acquitted of a more severe charge involving serious alarm or distress. Despite a conditional caution in April 2024, which required him to refrain from contacting Mordaunt and to complete a victim awareness course, Brandt continued his attempts to reach her. His actions included leaving voicemail messages, one of which stated his intention to "gently knock" at her door.
Impact on Penny Mordaunt
In a victim impact statement, Mordaunt, who served as MP for Portsmouth North from 2010 to 2024, described living in constant fear due to Brandt's "creepy" behavior. She reported feeling exhausted from the stress and increased security at her home and office. Mordaunt's fears were compounded by the broader context of security concerns for MPs, highlighted by Judge William Mousley KC during sentencing.
Additional Legal Breaches
Brandt was also sentenced for seven breaches of a stalking protection order, which remains in effect until November 2034. These breaches included failing to inform police about devices capable of connecting to the internet and creating accounts on social media platforms like Facebook and Snapchat. Judge Mousley underscored the risk of Brandt reoffending and the necessity of immediate imprisonment as a deterrent.
Defense and Mitigation
During the trial, Brandt claimed his intentions were political and harmless, expressing a desire to congratulate Mordaunt on her political achievements. His defense highlighted his neurodiverse condition, including ADHD and autism spectrum disorder, as factors reducing his responsibility. However, the court prioritized the safety and well-being of Mordaunt, leading to Brandt's incarceration.
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Scenario Analysis
The sentencing of Edward Brandt underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by public figures, particularly MPs, who are often accessible to the public. This case may prompt further discussions on enhancing protective measures for politicians to prevent similar incidents. Legal experts suggest that the enforcement of stalking protection orders could be strengthened to ensure compliance and deter potential offenders.
Additionally, the case highlights the importance of addressing mental health and neurodiversity in legal proceedings. While Brandt's condition was considered in mitigation, the court's decision reflects a balance between understanding individual circumstances and prioritizing victim safety. Future cases may further explore how mental health considerations are integrated into sentencing decisions.
Edward Brandt, a former councillor from Lymington, Hampshire, has been sentenced to 20 weeks in prison for stalking former Conservative MP Penny Mordaunt. The sentencing took place at Southampton Crown Court, where Brandt was found guilty of sending multiple emails and phone messages to Mordaunt and making unannounced visits to her Portsmouth office between September 2023 and May 2024.
Stalking Incidents and Legal Proceedings
Brandt, 61, was convicted of stalking but acquitted of a more severe charge involving serious alarm or distress. Despite a conditional caution in April 2024, which required him to refrain from contacting Mordaunt and to complete a victim awareness course, Brandt continued his attempts to reach her. His actions included leaving voicemail messages, one of which stated his intention to "gently knock" at her door.
Impact on Penny Mordaunt
In a victim impact statement, Mordaunt, who served as MP for Portsmouth North from 2010 to 2024, described living in constant fear due to Brandt's "creepy" behavior. She reported feeling exhausted from the stress and increased security at her home and office. Mordaunt's fears were compounded by the broader context of security concerns for MPs, highlighted by Judge William Mousley KC during sentencing.
Additional Legal Breaches
Brandt was also sentenced for seven breaches of a stalking protection order, which remains in effect until November 2034. These breaches included failing to inform police about devices capable of connecting to the internet and creating accounts on social media platforms like Facebook and Snapchat. Judge Mousley underscored the risk of Brandt reoffending and the necessity of immediate imprisonment as a deterrent.
Defense and Mitigation
During the trial, Brandt claimed his intentions were political and harmless, expressing a desire to congratulate Mordaunt on her political achievements. His defense highlighted his neurodiverse condition, including ADHD and autism spectrum disorder, as factors reducing his responsibility. However, the court prioritized the safety and well-being of Mordaunt, leading to Brandt's incarceration.
What this might mean
The sentencing of Edward Brandt underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by public figures, particularly MPs, who are often accessible to the public. This case may prompt further discussions on enhancing protective measures for politicians to prevent similar incidents. Legal experts suggest that the enforcement of stalking protection orders could be strengthened to ensure compliance and deter potential offenders.
Additionally, the case highlights the importance of addressing mental health and neurodiversity in legal proceedings. While Brandt's condition was considered in mitigation, the court's decision reflects a balance between understanding individual circumstances and prioritizing victim safety. Future cases may further explore how mental health considerations are integrated into sentencing decisions.
