Cathy Newman criticises police handling of years-long stalking case

Cathy Newman says years of sexually explicit letters and unwanted gifts from a stalker were deeply upsetting, and has criticised the police for how her case was handled. She says learning from the media that he had pleaded guilty highlighted the difficulties women face in seeking justice.

Christopher McKeever, 76, pleaded guilty to stalking without fear, alarm or distress at Colchester Magistrates’ Court. The conduct took place from 3 July 2024 to 12 April 2026 and continued despite warnings from Newman’s former employer, ITN. He has previous convictions for a similar offence; sentencing was adjourned to 25 January 2027, and bail conditions prohibit him from contacting Newman.