Man and Mum Sentenced Over Revenge Sexting Horror
Matthew Cooper-Collyer, 23, and his mum Linda Collyer, 41, from Monkton Deverill, received suspended jail sentences yesterday at Winchester Crown Court. The pair were caught out for threatening to share private sexual photos and sending malicious, abusive messages to torment a victim.
Photos Shared Without Consent
During their relationship, Matthew secretly took explicit photos and videos of the victim. After they split, he handed them to his mother, Linda, who then passed them to the victim’s father. The harassment escalated with Linda sending threatening voice notes and Facebook messages directly to the victim’s mother. Shocking images and hateful messages also circulated among the victim’s work colleagues and college friends.
Victim Speaks Out on Ordeal
“My life has changed massively and breaking up with you was for the better,” the victim told Cooper-Collyer in a powerful impact statement.
“My life was not in my hands, and I didn’t feel in control. This is the most soul destroying thing I’ve been through. It has consumed my life for three years, and I still can’t move on.”
Police Praise Victim’s Courage
Detective Sergeant Jonathan Davies-Bateman highlighted the “significant stress” the victim and her family endured due to the pair’s vicious actions.
“The victim and her parents have suffered serious mental health damage, impacting both their private and work lives. Despite this, they showed incredible dignity and courage.”
“I urge anyone suffering similar abuse to come forward so police can act.”
Sentencing Details
- Sentences: Six months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months
- Restraining Orders: Four years for both Matthew and Linda
The court threw the book at the terrified pair but gave them a chance to avoid jail — for now.
