JUSTIN HOWE FROM NEWPORT SENTENCED FOR STALKING AND HARASSMENT IN THE CITY

Justin Howe, a man aged 43 from Newport, has been found guilty of engaging in a disturbing pattern of stalking that instilled fear and anxiety in his former partner. The court proceedings revealed a series of distressing actions carried out by Howe, which severely impacted the victim’s mental health and sense of safety.

According to court testimony, Howe relentlessly bombarded his ex-partner with messages from multiple phone numbers, creating an atmosphere of constant harassment. His actions extended beyond mere messaging; he also followed her, which heightened her sense of paranoia and fear. The victim described her ordeal as so intense that she kept a knife in her bedroom drawer for protection, a clear sign of her growing anxiety and sense of vulnerability.

The woman recounted her feelings of terror, stating, “It left me unable to sleep and I thought I could hear something in my house at night.” Her mental health deteriorated as she experienced flashbacks, nightmares, and exhibited extreme paranoia. In her efforts to safeguard herself, she installed cameras around her home and carried a knife for self-defense, illustrating the profound impact Howe’s actions had on her daily life.

The court heard that Howe’s relationship with the victim had begun through a dating app. However, she chose to end the relationship, citing concerns that their connection was progressing too quickly. During their time together, she confided in Howe about her history of physical abuse from a previous partner. Court documents indicated that Howe kept notes on this sensitive information, which added a layer of manipulation and control to his behavior.

Prosecutors detailed how Howe used an app to generate anonymous phone numbers, which he employed to send harassing messages. These messages included derogatory comments about her former partner and claims that she deserved better. Some messages falsely suggested she was being watched, and at times, she believed she was communicating with her abuser, not realizing Howe’s numbers were being used to create this illusion.

Police investigations eventually linked some of Howe’s phone numbers to his email address, leading to his arrest. He subsequently pleaded guilty to the charges. The victim expressed how the stalking had left her feeling frightened and uncertain about her safety, significantly affecting her mental health and daily routines. She even considered moving house and changing her vehicle to escape the harassment.

In sentencing, Judge Hobson described Howe’s conduct as a form of psychological cruelty and manipulation. The court sentenced him to 16 months in prison and issued an indefinite restraining order to prevent further contact. The judge emphasized the severe emotional toll on the victim, highlighting the manipulative nature of Howe’s actions and their lasting impact on her life.