Dame Penny Mordaunt became visibly emotional today as she told a jury about the terrifying ordeal of being targeted by an alleged obsessive stalker.
The former defence secretary, 52, described feeling “very vulnerable” after Edward Brandt, 60, reportedly inundated her with emails, calls, and even tried to breach the security barrier at her office.
Brandt, a Conservative Party member, is now on trial at Southampton Crown Court, accused of stalking Mordaunt despite a police warning.
Prosecutors say he pursued her relentlessly, claiming he wanted to share a “much famed pint” with her and even to shake her “precious and gold plated hand” in admiration of her work.
Escalating Threats and Office Breaches
Mordaunt explained that Brandt’s behaviour began in the autumn of 2023 with polite emails and phone calls requesting meetings.
Over time, the messages escalated into repeated attempts to engage her, including holiday greetings and references to her appearances with celebrities like diver Tom Daley.
The situation intensified in December 2023 when Brandt attempted to jump the security barrier at her constituency office.
Security staff intercepted him, and Mordaunt was escorted safely to her car.
She revealed that she had to bolster security and alter her routines, including hiding office signage, installing CCTV, and using personal alarms.
Personal Impact on Mordaunt and Her Household
Giving evidence, Mordaunt described the toll the stalking took on her and her team.
She explained that she had to instruct her foster child on safety precautions and constantly worry about Brandt showing up at her workplace or home.
“The whole situation took its toll on me,” Mordaunt said, noting the strain on her staff and the constant responsibility she felt for everyone’s safety. “It was just incredibly draining.”
Repeated Police Warnings Ignored
Prosecutor Robert Bryan outlined Brandt’s repeated disregard for police instructions.
Even after being formally told to cease contact and attending a victim awareness course, Brandt continued messaging Mordaunt, with emails as late as March 2024, wishing her a happy birthday and insisting on meeting her.
“He showed no remorse,” Bryan said. “Her security had to be bolstered, and this was not an isolated incident—it became a persistent campaign.”
Alleged Obsession Over Personal Relationship
Mordaunt described Brandt’s messages as an attempt to form a personal relationship, citing references to her appearance and public image.
“The references to my personal appearance just increased my view that he wanted a personal relationship with me,” she told the court.
She also spoke about how she hoped after January that the harassment would end, but Brandt ignored reasonable requests and continued his campaign, causing ongoing fear and disruption to her life.
Trial Ongoing
Brandt faces charges of stalking causing severe distress, with the jury hearing details of his persistent efforts to contact Mordaunt despite legal warnings.
The trial continues as the court examines the full extent of the alleged harassment and its impact on Mordaunt, her staff, and her household.