DEAN HURST FROM ERDINGTON SENTENCED FOR STALKING AND THREATS IN WEST MIDLANDS

A man named Dean Hurst, residing in Erdington, has been formally sentenced to prison after being found guilty of engaging in a disturbing pattern of stalking and issuing threats against his former partner. The victim, who chose to end her relationship with Hurst in December of the previous year, had endured a prolonged period of physical and psychological abuse during their time together. Following the breakup, she was subjected to relentless harassment through dozens of voicemails and messages from Hurst, in which he issued chilling threats to her life, including statements such as, "You are going to die, you are going to be executed."

Hurst, aged 49, was taken into custody on January 27 after police investigations confirmed his involvement in these criminal activities. He faced multiple charges, including stalking and two counts of assault. During a court hearing on May 17, Hurst pleaded guilty to all charges, leading to his sentencing to a prison term of two years and three months. In addition to his incarceration, the court imposed a restraining order that will remain in effect for ten years, explicitly prohibiting Hurst from making any contact with the victim.

The case drew attention from authorities and the community alike, with police officer Kathryn Burns from the West Midlands Police Public Protection Unit emphasizing the severity of Hurst’s actions. She stated, "Hurst terrorized the woman and made her fear for her life on a daily basis. I want to thank her for being brave and reporting this behaviour. We take stalking and harassment extremely seriously. Nobody should have to put up with it. I hope she can take some closure from this sentence. If you are experiencing stalking or domestic abuse, please report it. We are here to help."

This case underscores the importance of addressing domestic abuse and stalking, and the police continue to urge victims to come forward and seek assistance. The community in Erdington and beyond is reminded of the critical need to support victims and hold offenders accountable for their actions.