A millionaire tech tycoon, Mark Pearson, renowned for creating the £55 million MyVoucherCodes empire, has accused his ex-boyfriend, Aaron Harpin, of attempting to sabotage his business by allegedly leaking sensitive details.
The legal dispute unfolded in the High Court in London as Pearson, 44, sought an order compelling Harpin, 34, to surrender his laptop and any information related to the alleged leak.
Allegations and Denials
Mark Pearson alleges that Harpin orchestrated a damaging anonymous email campaign against him, sending four emails to contacts of his tech venture capital business during a crucial fundraising period. The emails, deemed particularly damaging, were sent while Pearson was raising funds for investments, causing potential harm amounting to tens of millions.
Harpin has vehemently denied these allegations, claiming that Pearson is exercising control and exhibiting a controlling behavior.
Background of the Relationship
The legal battle unfolds against the backdrop of a once high-profile relationship. Mark Pearson and Aaron Harpin, who met in 2008, enjoyed a lavish lifestyle, raising two children together and collaborating in Pearson’s business ventures. However, the couple split last year, leading to the current High Court dispute.
High-Stakes Court Drama
Despite Pearson’s efforts to secure an order for Harpin to surrender his laptop and related information, Judge Susie Alegre dismissed the application, indicating an “extremely acrimonious” background to the case.
The judge emphasized the need for both parties to build their cases, acknowledging mutual distrust. The dispute is set to proceed to a full trial of the allegations.
Mark Pearson’s Journey
Mark Pearson’s rise to success from a challenging upbringing in a Liverpool suburb is highlighted. Inspired by his mother’s struggle to make ends meet, Pearson founded MyVoucherCodes in 2006, eventually turning it into a multimillion-pound business and earning accolades such as the Ernst and Young ‘Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year’ in 2011.
The sale of MyVoucherCodes in 2016 made Pearson one of Britain’s richest individuals.
Future Proceedings
As the legal battle continues to unfold, both parties allege breaches of the settlement agreement signed after their split.
The court emphasizes the need for a clear view of the likely outcome, considering the ongoing mutual distrust between Pearson and Harpin. The case is expected to proceed to a full trial, shedding light on the complexities of the relationship and the accusations made.
Download on Android
Download on iPhone
