BEVERLY, Mass. – A 32-year-old man accused of violating a restraining order, was arrested after his Google Plus account sent what was described as an automated invitation to his ex-girlfriend. Thomas Gagnon was in court Wednesday to face the judge, who admittedly was not well versed in how Google’s invitations were sent. However, that did not stop him from setting bail at $500 and ordering Gagnon to honor the restraining order that was taken out in December.
Gagnon’s attorney, Neil Hourihan, called the complaint “absolutely unfounded” citing the fact that Google can send invitations to anyone a person has contacted without permission. Hourihan also said his client had no idea how his ex received the invitation.
Gagnon was arrested just days after the restraining order was filed when his former girlfriend showed up at the police station with a copy of the Google Plus invitation. Police determined at that time that invitation constituted a violation of the restraining order.
The couple reportedly broke up after Gagnon presented her with a $4000 engagement ring. No information was given as to why the restraining order was filed.
A status hearing is set for February 6.