Louise Minchin's stalker handed jail sentence after 'horrific threats'

A Welsh man has received a prison sentence of two years and eight months, after pleading guilty to stalking TV star Louise Minchin. 

Carl Davies, 44, posted multiple "intimidating" messages on the former BBC Breakfast presenter's social media accounts in July 2020, in which he made graphic threats to harm both Minchin and her daughter. He also published the I'm a Celebrity 2021 contestant's home address and personal car details in the abusive comments. 

"Louise Minchin says she may never feel safe again," Judge Nicole Staffman told Davies at Mold Crown Court in Wales on Wednesday.  

"Clearly they would have been terrified … especially because it’s clear you knew where they lived and knew the details of cars that were on their drive. As a result, they are both now hyper-vigilant, they still have a sense of deep distress one year on and the family still don’t feel safe." She also handed Davies an indefinite restraining order that bans him from entering Minchin's village of Cheshire. 

In a statement released after the proceedings, Louise said, "The sentencing today of a man who made horrific threats online against my daughter and I marks the end of what has been a very distressing time for both of us.

The beloved TV presenter went on to thank the North Wales Police and the Crown Prosecution Service "for their hard work and for successfully investigating and prosecuting the case." 

"I hope it sends a clear message that people who make violent threats on social media can be found, can be prosecuted, and can expect a prison sentence," she added. 

Davies, who was previously convicted for stalking another woman in 2017, is understood to have PTSD from his service in the armed forces. 

Minchin left BBC Breakfast in September 2021, bidding farewell to her loyal colleagues and fans after an incredible 20 years on the air. Her spot on the iconic red sofa has since been replaced by longtime co-presenter Sally Nugent.