Social media users have been warned against prejudicial comment as the Island’s attorney general faces criminal charges.

In court this afternoon, prosecuting QC Ian Unsworth told magistrates at Douglas Courthouse the Island’s media outlets had reported the case responsibly.

But he said there was a worry internet forum and social media users might comment inappropriately as the case moves forward.

Both 51 year old Stephen Harding of Greeba Avenue in Glen Vine and deputy assessor of income tax Colin Goodwin, aged 56 of Lhon Vane Close in Onchan, appeared in court today.

Mr Harding is accused of three offences of forging documents with intent to deceive, conspiracy, committing an act against public justice and perjury.

Mr Goodwin faces two charges of committing an act against public justice and one charge of conspiracy.

Appearing in the dock before magistrates, both men spoke only to confirm their name and addresses.

The case was adjourned until Wednesday, December 12 and magistrates excused both men from appearing personally in court on that date.