Independent Member of Parliament Mike Fonseca has sued Member of Parliament Monika Rubin following a statement Rubin made regarding Fonseca’s girlfriend. Rubin confirmed receipt of the summons in a text message to the media.

The lawsuit stems from Rubin’s 2023 criticism of Fonseca’s relationship with a then 15-year-old girl. This relationship previously led to Fonseca’s departure from the Moderates party.

Last Saturday, Rubin stated that Fonseca had demanded 100,000 kroner and threatened a lawsuit, with payment expected by Sunday. Rubin has not retracted her criticism.

Rubin maintains her stance, asserting that adults who pursue relationships with children are problematic and should not be able to silence criticism through threats. She initially voiced her anger and disappointment on Facebook, questioning Fonseca’s suitability as a representative of the Danish people.

Rubin also suggested that Fonseca’s actions constituted grooming, accusing him of using his status and experience to seduce a young person.

Fonseca’s relationship violated the Moderates’ code of conduct, which prohibits sexual relations with individuals under 18 years of age.

Following the initial controversy, Fonseca resigned from the Moderates and took sick leave. He has since returned to work as an independent.

In January 2024, Midt- and West Zealand Police ceased an investigation into Fonseca for grooming, finding no reasonable presumption of criminal activity.

The specific grounds for Fonseca’s demand for compensation remain unclear. Rubin, typically the political spokesperson for the Moderates, is currently on maternity leave.