DARREN MITCHELL

A LANCASTER MAN HAS BEEN JAILED FOR A STALKING CAMPAIGN AGAINST A WOMAN.

Darren Mitchell, 23, stalked a woman for several months, forcing her to alter her daily routine to protect herself.

He threatened to show up at her workplace and began following her partner.

In her victim personal statement, the woman said: “I can’t go out anywhere on my own for fear of seeing Darren or someone to do with him.

“I won’t go out in town as I don’t feel safe.

I feel I can’t do anything without feeling someone is watching me all the time.

“I’m living a sheltered life.

I don’t do anything, don’t go anywhere, don’t see anyone outside work and I’ve lost a lot of friendships because of it.

“I no longer feel like me anymore and Darren has destroyed who I am.” Mitchell, of no fixed address, was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison at Preston Crown Court after pleading guilty to stalking and engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour.

He was also made subject to a six-year restraining order.

Det Con Dan Entwistle of Lancashire Police's West Division said: “I would like to commend the bravery which the victim showed in coming forward and reporting the offences to us.

“Lancashire Police take reports of stalking extremely seriously, and we will investigate reports and try to bring offenders to justice.

“I welcome the prison sentence passed on Darren Mitchell and I hope it sends out the message that stalking will not be tolerated.”