Alleged stalker who threatened to kill jockey Michelle Payne denied bail

Craig Langford, a 51-year-old man from Werribee, has been denied bail after allegedly sending violent death threats to Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Michelle Payne via social media. Prosecutors in the Wyndham magistrates court expressed grave concerns for Payne's physical safety and mental health, stating that the threats left her in a state of shock.

Langford, who was already on bail for other alleged offenses, allegedly sent the abusive messages over the course of three days, threatening to kill Payne and calling her a slut, a pig, and a dog. Payne, the first woman to win the Melbourne Cup, expressed that such comments were unimaginable and that individuals making such threats do not deserve freedom.

The court heard that Langford, who did not know Payne personally, had made threats of lethal violence, including wishing Payne and her family dead. Police had raided Langford's home, seizing his mobile phone to analyze its data. Langford denied sending the messages and claimed he did not use Instagram. His defence counsel stated that he would have "next to zero" access to a computer or smartphone if bailed, and his stepfather would report him to police if any orders were breached.

The court deemed Langford an unacceptable risk to the community due to the significant impact of stalking on its victims.