The High Court in Belfast has refused a request by the operator of the Tattle Life website, Sebastian Bond, to relax a freezing order against him to enable him to pay his lawyers.
The court indicated that a full application supported by affidavit evidence as to his means was required before such a request could be considered. There is an outstanding order requiring a full affidavit of means from Mr Bond, dating back to 2024.
In 2023 the court awarded Neil and Donna Sands £300,000 in damages for unlawful content published about them on the thread on the website. The website hosts threads allowing anonymous comment on influencers, celebrities and members of the public. The couple then identified Mr Bond as its operator and froze £1.8m worth of assets belonging to him and the operating companies.
Two weeks ago, the court made orders publicly identifying the parties to the case, including Mr Bond.
Mr Bond indicated that he is considering applying to challenge the jurisdiction of the court or set aside the judgment against him. The Sands have told the court they intend to seek leave to commence contempt of court proceedings against Mr Bond.
Gavin Millar KC acts for Mr and Mrs Sands, instructed by Gateley Legal.