BEN STRANGEWAYS FROM MIDDLESBROUGH SENTENCED FOR STALKING AND THREATS INVOLVING CHILDREN

A man named Ben Strangeways, who was known to have caused significant fear and distress among women and their families in Middlesbrough, was apprehended at the local bus station while armed with a knife and what authorities described as an 'attack kit'.

Strangeways, aged 21 and originally from Eston, has a disturbing history of harassment that spans several years. He was previously sentenced to nearly ten years in prison for a malicious campaign involving handwritten letters that targeted at least ten women. These letters contained graphic and horrifying descriptions of rape and murder, specifically threatening the safety of their children, which understandably caused widespread alarm and emotional trauma among the victims and their families.

In January, authorities found him carrying a black leather holdall, which was described as his 'attack kit'. This kit included items such as handcuffs, an eye mask, ties, energy tablets, and a drink, suggesting he was prepared for violent or criminal activity. Further investigations into his residence uncovered a collection of disturbing items, including books about notorious serial killers like Jeffrey Dahmer and Ted Bundy, a child-like sex doll, a hammer, a knife, an air pistol, and a black balaclava. These items painted a picture of a man with dangerous inclinations and a potential for violence.

Strangeways was considered a significant threat to women and children, with authorities and the court recognizing the severity of his actions. Despite the gravity of his crimes, the judge noted that current sentencing guidelines did not permit a life sentence. His criminal behavior included sending a Christmas card to one victim on Christmas Eve 2024, which read: "Lots of love, from someone special." This was followed by more threatening correspondence, in which he claimed to have been watching the victim through her window and stated he had come prepared with a knife. Another letter referenced her daughter and included threats of assault, kidnapping, and mutilation, further illustrating the extent of his malicious intent.

It was revealed during court proceedings that Strangeways used Google to locate and target women across the United Kingdom, demonstrating a calculated and methodical approach to his harassment. His arrest took place at Middlesbrough bus station, where police found him in possession of a flick knife. During the search, officers also discovered a list of additional potential victims, along with threats of sexual assault, necrophilia, and references to harming children.

Victims and their families shared emotional impact statements, describing the profound trauma inflicted by Strangeways’ actions. One mother from Merseyside explained how the threatening letters made her feel as if she was losing her mind and losing trust in others. Several families were forced to relocate to escape the ongoing threat and fear.

Prosecutor Ms. Buck described Strangeways as a 'Jekyll and Hyde' figure, emphasizing the high risk he posed of causing serious harm. Defense attorneys highlighted that he had no prior convictions and expressed remorse for his actions, although he admitted to deriving some pleasure from sending the disturbing letters. A psychiatric report suggested that he suffered a brain injury at age 12, which might have led to epilepsy, but this did not serve as an excuse for his behavior.

Strangeways pleaded guilty to charges of stalking, making threats, and possession of a bladed article. He was subsequently sentenced to nine years and five months in prison, with an additional 27 months on extended license. The court also imposed an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and restraining orders to protect potential future victims. The judge underscored the seriousness of his conduct and the extensive harm caused to victims and their loved ones.

For ongoing updates and news coverage, the public is encouraged to join the Teesside Live WhatsApp community or subscribe to their newsletter, ensuring they stay informed about developments related to this case and other local issues.