A woman from Chester pleaded guilty to posting an intimate photo online following a controversy on social media.
Jessica Bailey, 22, shared the image of her friend changing in the bathroom after accusing the victim of dragging her on Snapchat. When faced with his behavior, Bailey replied boredly, “Because I can.”
Bailey later tried to justify her actions, but after learning about the legal consequences, she changed the story. She admitted that there were two charges of sharing photos or movies of a person in a private state with the aim of causing alarm, distress or humiliation.
The court heard that the victim had not yet agreed to the photographs taken or shared. The image was snapped up in July of the previous year, causing psychological distress to the victims. Bailey’s actions are described as an emotional response to her negative portrayal of the online.
Bailey, who had been drinking at the time, claimed the situation was a “tit” reaction to online controversy. She expressed remorse for her actions and admitted the harm caused.
The Chester District Court sentenced Bailey to sign an 18-month community order. As part of the verdict, she will wear a sober tag for 120 days to monitor her drinking, complete a 35-day rehabilitation activity, and pay a £199 fee and a victim surcharge.
JP Frances Miller warned Bailey when he brought up this sentence: “Make sure you do everything you can or they will most likely bring you back here.”
