Retired #Cleveland Police officer appeals conviction for Facebook post about Islam and child marriage.

Stephen Gray, 65, of Darlington, who served 27 years with the force, was convicted at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court in April of sending a grossly offensive message under the Communications Act 2003.

He had re-posted the text “Fun facts about Bacon! People who eat bacon have a lower chance of marrying a nine-year-old!” alongside an image of a man in religious headdress.

A district judge ruled the post was grossly offensive.

At his appeal hearing at Teesside Crown Court on Friday, Gray said he shared it to highlight child marriage and forced marriage. He told the court the post referred to the marriage of the Prophet Mohammed and Aisha and that he felt strongly about the issue as a father and foster carer.

The complaint came from a neighbour. Gray said he believed the report was malicious.

His appeal is supported by the Free Speech Union. The result of the appeal is expected later.