Darryn Walker cleared over Girls Aloud rape fantasy

Jun 30 2009 The Journal

AN internet blogger at the centre of an online murder fantasy involving pop stars Girls Aloud has been cleared by a court.

Darryn Walker posted a tale on the internet called Girls Scream Aloud – about the kidnap, rape and murder of all five members of the the chart-topping band, including Newcastle’s Cheryl Cole.

He was charged under the Obscene Publication Act 1959 and was due to be tried by a jury at Newcastle Crown Court yesterday.

But the case was brought before Judge Esmond Faulks where prosecutors dropped the case and a not guilty verdict was recorded.

Prosecutor David Perry QC told the court the case was brought on the basis vulnerable young fans could have easily accessed the graphic article while looking for online information about the band.

But Walker’s defence team had evidence from a consultant in information technology which showed only those deliberately seeking to access such material could have accessed it.

Mr Perry said the Crown Prosecution Service received the defence evidence on June 12, which prompted a review and subsequent discontinuance of the case.