Diane Durham, 62, has denied sending a bomb hoax regarding Buckingham Palace while the King was recovering from cancer treatment. Durham admitted to posting a message on X, suggesting a ‘thing liable to explode’ was en route to the 300-year-old royal residence via train. However, she pleaded not guilty to the charge of communicating false information to the Metropolitan Police, citing numerous events occurring at the time.
Appearing at Leeds Magistrates Court in black attire, she represented herself during the brief hearing. Durham opted for a trial at Leeds Crown Court, scheduled for next month.
She expressed concerns about potential stalking directed at anyone involved in her case, should she seek legal representation. Addressing District Judge Timothy Capstick, she acknowledged writing and sending the tweet, which she only deleted after it was reported over a week later.
A Pudsey woman accused of making a bomb hoax to Buckingham Palace appeared in court today for the second hearing in her case. Diane Durham, 62, of Church Lane, is charged with communicating false information about an explosive device at the royal residence.
Durham, who was… pic.twitter.com/jvjZeaCLw7— Marti Blagborough (@MartiBlagi) October 7, 2024
When asked why she denied the charge, Durham mentioned various ongoing issues in her life and online, hinting at her search for answers. Judge Capstick clarified the court’s role, stating it would focus on whether the prosecution could substantiate the case, not serve as a platform for her views.
The incident reportedly occurred on May 17. Following the Metropolitan Police’s alert, Durham was arrested at her home in Pudsey, near Leeds, by West Yorkshire Police.
If convicted, she could face up to two years in prison. Durham, whose husband observed from the public gallery, received unconditional bail and is set to appear at Leeds Crown Court on November 4.
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Telegraph reports that Diane Durham, 62, is charged for posting a bomb hoax on X threatening to blow up Buckingham Palace, where the Princess Royal hosted a garden party, highlighting serious online threats and their consequences.(read more)
- Metro reports Diane Durham, 62, denied sending a bomb hoax tweet about Buckingham Palace, citing life turmoil and seeking answers, while facing up to two years in prison.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Did the woman admit to sending the bomb hoax message?
Yes, she admitted to posting the message on X.
Why did Diane Durham deny the charge if she admitted to posting the message?
She claimed there were many things going on at the time.
Where and when will Diane Durham’s trial take place?
Her trial will be at Leeds Crown Court on November 4.
What could be the consequence if Diane Durham is found guilty?
She faces up to two years in prison.
Did Diane Durham have legal representation during the initial hearing?
No, she represented herself during the brief hearing.