Story Highlight
– Richard Kendal threatened judges, expressing violent intentions.
– He suffers from psychosis and a delusional disorder.
– Kendal sent abusive letters to approximately 50 judges.
– Court deemed him unfit for trial; detained indefinitely.
– New restraining order bans him from contacting victims.
Full Story
A man has been detained indefinitely in a hospital following serious threats issued against prominent members of the judiciary. Richard Kendal, aged 62, is reported to have harboured a long-standing grievance against the legal system, leading to a pattern of stalking and intimidation towards judges and their associates.
The case was presented at Kingston Crown Court, where it was revealed that Kendal, from Wandsworth, South London, suffers from severe mental health issues, including psychosis and a delusional disorder. His case highlights the nexus between mental health and the judicial system, particularly in relation to persistent harassment and legal vendettas stemming from personal disputes.
Kendal had previously been embroiled in a contentious divorce with his ex-wife, Ruth Garner, in 2009. This not only exacerbated his emotional distress but also bred a belief in a conspiracy among judicial figures against him. By 2021, Kendal had reportedly sent abusive letters to approximately 50 judges, with specific threats directed at Sir Andrew McFarlane, who at the time presided over the Family Division at the Royal Courts of Justice. Evidence presented indicated that Kendal persistently targeted Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring and a legal adviser, Elizabeth Hardy.
The court noted that Kendal’s actions instigated fear among those he stalked, leading to serious concerns regarding their personal safety. Judge Goldspring expressed specific anxiety about potential attacks, either during his commute or at home, reflecting the broader implications of Kendal’s behaviour on the wellbeing of individuals within the judicial system.
In a profound statement by Judge Marcus Tregilgas-Davey, he addressed Kendal’s fixation on a supposed conspiracy, stemming from his negative experiences during the divorce proceedings. “You were embittered by the financial divorce settlement,” the judge stated, “It has ruined your life.” This sentiment underscores the dramatic impact that unresolved personal issues can have on mental health and social behaviour.
Prosecutor Laura Blackband elaborated on Kendal’s refusal to move forward since his marriage ended, asserting that his post-divorce life has been consumed by litigation and vengeance towards those he holds responsible for his plight. “He has devoted his energy over years into pursuing vexatious litigation against his ex-wife,” she remarked.
Kendal’s threats escalated significantly in the lead-up to 2021, manifesting in threats of violence towards judges, including Sir Andrew McFarlane. Evidence from January 2021 revealed a disturbing email in which Kendal alluded to Sir Andrew’s previous heart surgery with the ominous note: “You have a narrow window before I release the hounds.”
As the legal proceedings unfolded, Kendal’s behaviour progressed to attempts to launch private prosecutions against other judges, including Mrs Justice Arbuthnot. His actions have been described as erratic, leading to a conviction for racially aggravated stalking and multiple breaches of court orders aimed at protecting his ex-wife.
Testimony from Judge Goldspring illustrated the severity of the accusations against Kendal, outlining a series of emails filled with threats of violence, including graphic language suggesting assassination and references to the Holocaust. These communications have raised alarm not only for their content but also for their volume, with hundreds of emails sent between January 2024 and July 2025.
Ms Hardy also provided evidence of Kendal’s calculated intimidation tactics, reporting that she had been portrayed as a complicit partner to the senior judges in derogatory emails and had been frightened by threats which alluded to her and her colleagues being killed or mutilated. “I was scared that he would try something,” she shared, reflecting the pervasive fear created by Kendal’s actions.
Ultimately, Kendal has demonstrated resistance to recognising his mental health issues, further complicating the judicial response to his behaviour. His barrister, Jeffrey Israel, cited a downward spiral in Kendal’s life post-divorce but insisted that he is not violent and would not follow through on his threats.
The jury found Kendal guilty of a range of stalking offences, including one that involved threats against Sir Andrew, thereby confirming the judges’ fears regarding their safety amidst his unwarranted vendetta. Consequently, a new restraining order was imposed, barring Kendal from any contact with Sir Andrew McFarlane, Judge Goldspring, his ex-wife Ruth Garner, Ms Hardy, and retired High Court judge Sir Nicholas Mostyn.
As the case closes, it raises significant questions regarding the intersection of mental health and the judicial process, particularly concerning the need for adequate protections for those within the legal system from individuals who may pose a threat due to their unresolved personal grievances.
Our Thoughts
The case highlights significant lapses in personal safety measures that could have been addressed. Implementing enhanced security protocols at court facilities could have safeguarded judges and staff from the threats posed by Richard Kendal. Regular assessments of security systems and ensuring that personnel are trained to manage potentially dangerous situations meets requirements under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which mandates employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of employees.
Additionally, better communication and information-sharing between courts regarding individuals exhibiting threatening behaviors could have facilitated early interventions. This aligns with the guidance set forth by the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, which stresses assessing risks and taking appropriate action.
The continual harassment faced by Judges McFarlane and Goldspring raises concerns about safeguarding measures for public officials. A failure to enforce protective court orders and monitor compliance suggests breaches of the Protection from Harassment Act 1997.
To prevent similar incidents, courts should establish comprehensive risk assessment protocols and collaborate with law enforcement to address threats swiftly, thereby protecting individuals from harassment and potential harm.
