Thomas Hill, a 29-year-old TikTok influencer with 2.6 million followers, has been cleared of stalking his ex-girlfriend, Charlie Mullis. Hill, who also has nearly 500,000 followers on Instagram, was accused of bombarding Mullis with calls and messages after their breakup. However, the prosecutor offered no new evidence to support the allegations, leading to Hill’s acquittal.
Hill and Mullis had been in a relationship for about a year after Mullis initially contacted Hill following a post he made about his mental health. Their relationship, described as “turbulent,” ended on January 28 of last year. Following the breakup, Mullis claimed that Hill began stalking her, which included following her to the gym and sending flowers to her workplace. She also alleged that Hill sat outside her home and sent 44 messages in one day, some containing threats.
Despite these accusations, the situation was complicated by the fact that the two had reconciled shortly after the breakup. Mullis confirmed that they went to a hotel and had sex after their relationship had ended. Hill maintained that any contact between them after the breakup was mutual and consensual.
Janet Weeks, the prosecutor, informed jurors that Hill’s defense was that he had never been given any indication that his contact was unwanted. Hill insisted that the communication between them was reciprocal.
After Mullis concluded her testimony, the prosecution decided not to present any further evidence against Hill. Consequently, Hill, who lives in Thamesmead, Greenwich, east London, was formally cleared of the stalking charge, which had not involved causing fear, alarm, or distress.
This case highlights the intense scrutiny TikTok influencers face and the potential complexities in their personal lives becoming public. While Hill was cleared, the label of an “influencer stalker” could have severe implications on his career and public image. It also underscores the importance of clear communication and boundaries in relationships, especially in the public eye.
