CHESTER MAN JAILED FOR PERSISTENT MP STALKING CAMPAIGN
A man named Benjamin Scott-Thrale, aged 32, from Chester, Cheshire, has been sentenced to six weeks in jail after launching a campaign of harassment against his local MP, Samantha Dixon.Scott-Thrale's harassment campaign, which took place from June 2023 until January 2024, included sending emails, making phone calls, visiting her constituency office, and making threats on social media.
The harassment began after Ms.
Dixon attempted to assist him with a family matter but advised him to seek legal advice after she felt she had done all she could to help.
He pleaded not guilty and was convicted following a trial at Warrington Magistrates' Court.
The court considered the time he had already served in custody.
Additionally, Scott-Thrale was issued with a two-year restraining order.
The CPS stated that his campaign was deliberate and persistent, culminating in an incident on 30 January when he called her office again, demanding a face-to-face meeting.
Ms.
Dixon felt seriously alarmed and contacted the police, leading to his arrest.
The CPS spokesperson emphasized the importance of protecting MPs from such behavior, as it affects their daily lives and causes genuine distress.
Edges of the case highlighted include his actions such as threats to undermine her role via social media and repeated contact despite formal police and personal requests to cease contact.
