STALKER SET UP ONLYFANS ACCOUNT IN EX GIRLFRIEND'S NAME
A man described as a 'sinister' stalker created an OnlyFans account in his ex-girlfriend's name and also applied for jobs using her identity.Andrew Betteridge threatened to circulate a nude photograph of the woman, who has chosen not to be named by the ECHO, and sent her the image while she was on holiday with her family.
The woman stated that Betteridge’s actions have deeply affected her, describing herself as feeling like a 'prisoner in her own home' after he even appeared at her children's school.
During the sentencing at Liverpool Magistrates' Court, District Judge Wendy Lloyd called Betteridge's stalking behavior as 'relentless' and 'calculated,' criticising his efforts to harass her.
The judge commented on the extent of his actions, saying, 'Your creativity in making this woman's life a misery has been extraordinary.' Prosecutor Tom Hanlon revealed that Betteridge admitted to stalking the woman from March to September of the previous year.
Court details showed that the couple was in a relationship from 2019 until early 2020, after which the woman blocked Betteridge's number due to unwanted contact.
On one occasion, she received 29 calls from an unknown number, according to the prosecution.
The behavior reportedly escalated, with Betteridge taking a nude photograph of her and making multiple references to sharing it, particularly during arguments.
He also used social media to locate her parents' address, which the judge noted as significant 'detective work.' His stalking extended further when he appeared at her child's school, raising fears about her safety.
The court heard that Betteridge engaged in social media conversations that implied a continuing relationship.
He was also responsible for creating an OnlyFans account under her name, although he refrained from posting her nude image there.
OnlyFans is a platform where users subscribe to view content that is frequently explicit.
In her victim statement, the woman shared that Betteridge's actions had devastated her life.
She recounted waking up in the middle of the night feeling panicked and expressed fear of going out, feeling trapped at home.
She also expressed concern about her safety, having considered installing CCTV at her residence and keeping her blinds drawn while indoors.
Betteridge, of Warrington, had no prior convictions.
His defense solicitor highlighted his guilty plea and described his behavior as 'delusional,' acknowledging that the actions were 'extreme' and linked to substance use, including alcohol and cocaine.
They noted that Betteridge struggles with anxiety and depression, for which he's now receiving medication.
She also pointed out that he is employed full-time and is the father of a severely autistic son.
Supporters in court included his wife, who has forgiven him for the offenses against his ex-girlfriend.
Judge Lloyd commented that Betteridge was described as 'compassionate' in a character reference but remarked that his actions towards the woman showed 'absolute spite.' The judge criticized his relentless pursuit, including efforts to find employment using her name, and described his obsession with stalking as 'effectively of good character.' She emphasised the severity and calculated nature of his behaviour, stating that Betteridge's obsession 'became your all-consuming hobby.' Despite her understanding of his capacity for work and family commitments, Lloyd questioned how he could dedicate so much time to stalking an activity she observed as profoundly impactful on the victim.
Ultimately, Betteridge received a 12-week jail sentence suspended for one year, along with 25 Rehabilitation Activity Requirements.
An indefinite restraining order was issued, barring him from approaching the woman or her residence.
He was also ordered to pay £85 in costs and a victim surcharge of £124.
