Lindy a lone voice of sanity amid social media lynch mob’s hysteria over rugby rape trial verdict

LINDY McDowell is to be congratulated for her article (News, March 31) regarding the hysteria on social media in relation to the recent rape trial.

It was the only voice of reason and common sense in a storm of ignorance and hateful prejudice.

The reaction to the verdict from those taking part is reminiscent of Madame DeFarge and Co, who sat at the foot of the guillotine.

It would seem that they are determined that those who have been acquitted by a judge and jury are to be hung out to dry, regardless of the court ruling.

If the men are not guilty, according to the opinions of those who won’t accept the verdict, they must be guilty of being (a) famous, (b) sportsmen and, most shameful of all, (c) middle-class and grammar school-educated. How foolish and dangerous is that?

Now, we have a reported 60,000-plus signing an online petition, haranguing the rugby authorities and organising marches in support of the complainant. It is like a lynch mob in its mentality, and it is to be deplored.

Maybe the tweeters and Facebookers would be better venting their spleen against those who breached the anonymity of the young woman in the case by posting her name and photograph on the same social media that they all place such faith in.

Where is the 60,000-strong online petition protesting about payments to Stormont politicians who aren’t working? Or in support of the victims of terrorist violence? Or in support of the countless children who were victims of sexual abuse by the clergy?

There will always be verdicts in court cases that people will not agree with, but until society demands changes, we have to accept them, otherwise anarchy ensues.

A great number of violent murderers were released on to our streets. I don’t recall 60,000 people protesting at that decision.

Time for some winding in of necks and less vitriolic bile and stupidity.