ANTHONY BAKER'S SOUTHAMPTON FAMILY TARGETED IN VIGILANTE ATTACKS AFTER PAEDOPHILE SENTENCE
In November 2002, a disturbing series of events unfolded in Southampton involving the family of Anthony Baker, a man convicted of heinous crimes against young girls.Baker, aged 43 at the time, was sentenced to a substantial 14-year prison term after a nine-day trial that concluded in October.
The charges against him included 26 counts of rape, indecent assault, and indecency, reflecting a grave pattern of abuse against two young victims.
Despite the severity of his crimes and the fact that his family publicly disavowed his actions, they have become the unfortunate targets of violent and malicious acts carried out by vigilantes.
These acts of retribution have taken place at Baker’s former residence in Southampton, specifically in the Bassett area.
Neighbors and community members have reportedly been throwing mud and eggs at the family’s home, creating an atmosphere of intimidation and fear.
Adding to the distress, Baker’s young son has also been subjected to cruelty.
Reports indicate that paint was thrown over him, and his shoes were deliberately removed and discarded, further illustrating the extent of the community’s anger and hostility towards Baker’s family.
These actions have caused significant emotional trauma to the innocent family members who have no connection to Baker’s criminal acts.
Following the incident, the matter was brought to the attention of Judge Christopher Leigh QC, who expressed his strong disapproval of the vigilante behavior.
Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the judge summoned police officers back to Southampton Crown Court to address the issue directly.
In a prepared statement, Judge Leigh emphasized the unlawfulness and reprehensibility of such actions, stating, “On 16 October 2002, I sentenced a man called Anthony Baker to 14 years imprisonment for a series of rapes and indecent assaults against two victims.
It has since come to my notice that the family of Mr.
Baker has been subjected to harassment and assault.
Harassment of this sort is unlawful and the police are investigating this matter.
But it is particularly reprehensible in this case as Mrs.
Baker and her family have at no time, or in any way, been supportive of Mr.
Baker.” Authorities have condemned the vigilante attacks, underscoring that justice must be served through lawful channels and that targeting innocent family members is both unjust and illegal.
The community’s response highlights the ongoing tension between the desire for retribution and the rule of law, especially in cases involving such serious crimes as those committed by Anthony Baker in Southampton.
