ESA HARDING'S BRUTAL STALKING AND VIOLENCE IN DUDLEY LEADS TO OVER THREE YEARS IN PRISON

The first images have emerged of Esa Harding, a man from Dudley, who was involved in a violent and disturbing attack on a woman following a relentless pursuit that culminated at a local pub. Harding, aged 35, has a troubling history of domestic violence and stalking, which was brought into sharp focus during his recent court appearance.

Harding was convicted and sentenced to more than three and a half years in prison after pleading guilty to a series of serious charges related to his assault on the woman. The court heard that Harding’s actions caused her significant distress and physical injury, including a bite to her head that resulted in a noticeable lump, pain, and ongoing discomfort.

The incident began when Harding forcibly entered the woman’s home in Dudley while she was accompanied by a female friend. He demanded to know who had parked on her driveway, displaying aggressive behavior. When the women attempted to leave the premises, Harding returned to the scene. This time, he parked his vehicle across the driveway, effectively blocking their exit. He then proceeded to punch the window of her car while shouting and swearing loudly, escalating the situation further.

Following this, Harding physically grabbed the woman’s legs and took her shoes, demonstrating a clear intent to intimidate and control. Not stopping there, Harding pursued the women to a nearby pub in his vehicle. Witnesses reported that he overtook her car and then suddenly braked hard, causing her to feel threatened and unsafe. It was at this pub that Harding launched a vicious attack, during which he bit her on the head, leaving her with a lump and injuries that required medical attention.

It was also revealed that Harding was violating a restraining order at the time of the assault. Additionally, he was serving a suspended sentence of 20 weeks, which was subsequently activated due to his recent behavior. This was not Harding’s first act of violence against the same woman; in June 2019, he had previously assaulted her by grabbing her around the throat, kicking her head, and punching her while she was on the ground.

During the sentencing hearing at Wolverhampton Crown Court, Judge Michael Chambers QC highlighted Harding’s persistent pattern of causing distress and his history of violent offenses. The judge pointed out Harding’s previous convictions, including the earlier battery incident, and emphasized the seriousness of his domestic violence and stalking behaviors. The court condemned Harding’s actions, which demonstrated a blatant disregard for legal orders and the safety of the victim.

As a result, Harding was sentenced to a custodial term of 42 months, and his suspended sentence was fully activated. The court acknowledged Harding’s history of threatening the victim with a Stanley blade during the earlier assault, further underscoring the danger he posed. The judge noted that Harding’s provocations and aggressive conduct caused the victim considerable anguish and fear, and he made it clear that such behavior would not be tolerated.

This case underscores the ongoing issues of domestic violence and stalking, with Harding’s actions serving as a stark reminder of the importance of legal protections and the need for strict enforcement of sentences to protect victims from repeat offenders.