London Court Rules Prince Harry as Phone-Hacking Victim with Editorial Knowledge

London's High Court ruled that Prince Harry was a victim of phone hacking by Mirror Group journalists, who had their editors' knowledge, resulting in a legal victory for Harry.

The court ordered a payout of £140,600 (about $180,700) to Prince Harry, who was not present but expressed satisfaction through his lawyer, affirming his commitment to an accountable press.

Since resigning from royal duties and moving to the U.S., Harry has been actively challenging British tabloid practices, recently focusing on those he calls "criminals" in the media. Among the accused is Piers Morgan, a former Daily Mirror editor and Harry critic, who denies involvement in phone hacking.

Harry was part of a group suing Mirror Group Newspapers for misconduct between 1991 and 2011. Of the 33 articles inspected, related to Harry, the judge confirmed 15 resulted from unlawful actions. Judge Timothy Fancourt awarded Harry additional damages due to the cover-up by senior Mirror Group figures.

The court found a pattern of illegal activities, including deception, by Mirror Group Newspaper staff, hidden from the company's board and the public, including during a press standards inquiry. Mirror Group Newspapers has apologized and made compensation for the historical wrongdoing. Further legal proceedings regarding costs will follow.

Harry is also engaged in similar legal battles with other British publishers, including a forthcoming trial against the publisher of the Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday. He stands firm on his mission, despite acknowledging the personal costs, for a free and honest press.