MAN THREATENED TO BURN DOWN UNIVERSITY AND HARASSED WOMEN
Joseph Bissell avoided immediate imprisonment after admitting to three counts of violating a stalking protection order and making threats to damage property.At Bradford Crown Court, it was explained that the 27-year-old, who resides in supported accommodation in Manchester, was living in Bradford when he reached out to three women after previously being prohibited from doing so.
His emails appeared to be an attempt to be sent back to custody, as he believed prison was “a good place” for him.
The court noted a two-year stalking protection order issued by Bristol Magistrates’ Court in August 2022, which barred Bissell from contacting the three women he met while studying at the University of the West of England (UWE).
Prosecutor Gareth Henderson-Moore outlined that Bissell experienced mental health issues during his time at UWE and was supported by one of the women he befriended.
When she rejected his efforts to start a relationship, he began engaging in unwanted conduct, which amounted to harassment.
His conduct escalated to contacting colleagues of the woman, prompting police to issue a warning.
His behavior led to the issuance of the stalking protection order.
In September 2022, Bissell was arrested and sentenced to custody.
Despite his release, he continued to contact the victim.
He was again arrested and prosecuted in March 2023 after writing threatening letters to the police, including threats to kill the victim and set fire to the university.
The court also revealed that in December 2023, Bissell breached the same order by sending emails to the three women while staying at Blankney Grange in Wyke.
Mr.
Henderson-Moore added that the emails contained threats of suicide and arson, with the behavior seemingly motivated by a desire to remain in custody rather than intending to harm others or damage property.
His mental health was identified as a likely contributing factor.
Defence solicitor Clare Walsh argued that Bissell’s actions occurred during a mental health crisis and emphasized that support, rather than imprisonment, was what he needed.
Judge Kirstie Watson sentenced Bissell to 12 weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months, ordered him to complete 30 days of rehabilitation activities to improve his thinking skills, and imposed a six-month GPS monitoring order.
