‘Robin Swann kill threat man’ was fuelled by bottle of wine

Court told posts left minister ‘in fear’

A MAN accused of making threats to kill the Health Minister acted as a “keyboard warrior” fuelled by wine, the High Court heard yesterday.

William Hawkes, 44, allegedly posted a series of menacing tweets which left Robin Swann distressed and in fear.

Prosecutors indicated some messages sent earlier this month included language too extreme to recite in open court.

But Hawkes’ barrister Sean Mullan said: “This is a classic case of a keyboard warrior, venting late at night, with a bottle of wine mixed with medication.”

Hawkes, of Ardmillan Crescent in Newtownards, Co Down, is accused of threats to kill, harassment and improper use of electronic communications.

He was bailed on conditions which include a ban on contacting Mr Swann or further Twitter postings about him.

Mr Swann alerted police on November 15 to a series of online messages said to involve threats towards him and his staff.

One stated: “Any f ***** who wants to have a go at me or my parents I will rock your world. What does that mean? Well let’s find out.”

Hawkes was arrested after being identified through police systems due to previous reports in relation to Mr Swann. Prosecutor Adrian Higgins said the “sinister” tweets appeared within two weeks of Hawkes being put on probation for similar posts.

He told the court further alleged messages on November 20 contained inflammatory remarks and a threat to cut off the Health Minister’s head.

Mr Higgins said: “The additional messages are so extreme that I would be using language I have never used in court.

“They are very clearly designed to cause distress and upset to a gentleman who is providing a public service.”

In a prepared statement Hawkes cited issues with anxiety, depression and a potential diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome.

Robin Swann TARGETED