An evangelical preacher who described Islam as ‘satanic’ and ‘heathen’ is to be prosecuted, it was reported in June.
Pastor James McConnell triggered controversy when he said he did not trust Muslims, during a sermon at his north Belfast church in 2014. In a statement, Northern Ireland’s Public Prosecution Service’s spokeswoman said: ‘I can confirm that, following consideration of a complaint in relation to an internet broadcast of a sermon in May 2014, a decision was taken to offer an individual an informed warning for an offence contrary to the Communications Act 2003.
‘That offence was one of sending, or causing to be sent, by means of a public electronic communications network, a message or other matter that was grossly offensive. The offer of an informed warning was refused by the defendant and accordingly the matter is now proceeding by way of a summary prosecution in the Magistrates Court.’
