MAN WHO HID IN VICTIM'S CUPBOARD CALLED HER 128 TIMES FROM PRISON
A man known as Gavin Eyles, who previously resided in Chippenham, Wiltshire, has been sentenced to two years and eight months in prison after repeatedly calling his former partner over 100 times from jail.Eyles’s controlling behavior was so intense that his ex-partner felt compelled to seek permission before undertaking everyday activities such as taking a shower or selecting her clothing.
After their breakup, he persisted in attempting unwanted contact, including hiding in her cupboard at her home on one occasion.
While in custody on remand, Eyles made 128 phone calls to the victim.
On February 8, at Gloucester Crown Court, he admitted to coercive and controlling conduct along with stalking and received his prison sentence.
He was also issued a 10-year restraining order preventing him from contacting the victim and entering Gloucestershire.
Given the time already spent on remand prior to his plea, Eyles has nearly completed his sentence.
His victim described the experience as profoundly traumatic, emphasizing that stalking involves more than just physical presence it includes subtle actions like repeated texts and calls, hacking into streaming accounts, and leaving flowers, all of which are invasive.
She urged others not to remain silent, noting that fear and disbelief often prevent victims from reporting stalking behavior.
Detective Inspector Angela Middlewood described Eyles’s actions as controlling abuse and praised the victim for her bravery.
She expressed hope that the restraining order and conviction would provide her some closure.
The Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworker (ISAC) for Gloucestershire highlighted the profound impact on the victim's life, noting that her courage led to Eyles’s convictions being recorded.
This allows others contemplating a relationship with him to be informed through Clare’s Law and make more informed decisions.
