Netflix’s latest documentary, Can I Tell You a Secret?, shows the exploits of a cyberstalker, Matthew Hardy. The court initially sentenced him to nine years in prison for his actions. However, according to The Guardian, three judges sitting in the court of appeal reduced the original sentence.
Matthew Hardy has created numerous fake accounts for almost ten years. Reports suggest that he stalked and spread horrific lies about the victims to her loved ones. Furthermore, these lies would involve victims having indecent relationships with their bosses or stepfathers. In addition, Matthew would also hack the victim’s social media profiles or create fake accounts. Posing as the victim, he even had explicit conversations and also sent their stolen intimate photos.
The situation got so tense that his victims had to take steps for protection. One woman stated that she slept with a baseball bat in her hand. Meanwhile, another kept a Japanese sword near her bed. The victims reportedly lost friends, relationships, job opportunities, and more. In addition, some of them suffered from depression and anxiety and turned to medication.
As per The Guardian, Matthew Hardy’s nine-year sentence was reduced because three judges from the court of appeal believed that the original punishment was too high. Furthermore, the accused suffered from Asperger’s and autism, due to which he lacked empathy.
As for the synopsis of the Netflix documentary, IMDb describes it as follows: “Three women’s lives are changed forever when a prolific stalker infiltrates their social media accounts. And they’re only a fraction of his many victims.”
Can I Tell You a Secret?: What is Asperger syndrome?
The court reportedly reduced Matthew Hardy’s sentence because he suffered from a mental disorder called Asperger syndrome. It is a developmental disorder that falls under the autism spectrum disorder. Sufferers of this condition find it hard to emotionally relate to others in the society. According to WebMD, they have a specific routine and a small set of interests. Moreover, they perform certain actions repetitively.
The Guardian reported that in the court, Matthew’s lawyer, Sara Haque, stated that her client’s original sentence lacked consideration of his mental disorders. She said, “When one considers the developmental disorder of the appellant, the sentence is manifestly excessive.”
One of three judges hearing the appeal, Mrs. Justice McGowan, said, “The appellant’s medical condition – he suffered from Asperger’s and autism – was clear and well documented.” She further said, “It led to him suffering from a lack of empathy, such that he was not always able to understand the impact that his behaviour would have on others. The learned judge rightly reduced the term that he had in mind by 25% to allow for that mental disorder.”
According to the outlet, Sara Haque also noted that Matthew Hardy’s crimes should not be considered serious because of his condition. Even though McGowan rejected the argument, she agreed that the initial sentence needed reduction. As per reports, the accused’s sentence was reduced to eight years.
Matthew Hardy is currently 32 years old.
