High Court rejects celebrity’s bid to block misconduct reports

A High Court judge has rejected a celebrity’s bid to prevent ITN and Guardian News and Media from publishing allegations of sexual misconduct, but an interim reporting restriction continues to protect his identity while a possible appeal is considered. Mr Justice Nicklin dismissed the celebrity’s claim for an injunction on Tuesday. His decision did not determine whether the allegations are true, and the judge said the ruling does not amount to approval of any publication. The celebrity remains anonymous under the interim restriction as he considers whether to appeal. The reported deadline to lodge an appeal is November 9. ITN and Guardian News and Media say they want to report allegations of inappropriate and exploitative sexual conduct involving girls and young women. Their lawyers argued that publication would contribute to public debate and that mental health services could address the reported risk to the celebrity. The outlets have said he denies wrongdoing. The celebrity’s lawyer, Sara Mansoori, told the court that her client had attempted suicide twice after learning of the investigation and that publication could endanger his life. She said he was vulnerable and not...