STALKER LEFT EX SCARED TO LEAVE HOME
Matthew Stacey, a 29-year-old man, subjected his ex-partner to a campaign of harassment that included sending numerous messages and repeatedly driving past her home.He also contacted her friends and her father in an apparent attempt to intimidate her.
During a court hearing at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, it was revealed that Stacey had been in an intermittent romantic relationship with the victim since 2019, which officially ended in April 2023.
Following the breakup, Stacey began making threats not only to his ex but also to her neighbour.
According to prosecutor Mr.
Anthony Longworth, the most aggressive behaviour occurred during the summer of 2023.
Stacey, who shares a child with the victim, continuously called her and sent messages, while also visiting her home or driving by her residence to intimidate her.
The prosecutor emphasised that Stacey refused to accept her right to live independently, apart from arrangements related to their child.
His actions aimed to frighten her, with behaviour going beyond simple threats, including recorded footage of him driving in the area without a clear reason.
Stacey was arrested on May 6 and, during police interviews, he provided a prepared statement claiming that the accusations stemmed from a child custody dispute and financial matters, suggesting malicious intent.
The victim’s statement, read aloud in court, described how Stacey’s actions adversely affected her daily life.
She now feels fearful to go shopping or outdoors and is undergoing mental health treatment.
Their young son has also become distressed, often seeking comfort from his mother and visibly reacting to police visits.
Additionally, Stacey’s conduct has led to the victim losing friends due to messages Stacey sent to their mutual acquaintances.
Stacey, residing on Youlgreave Avenue, Berryhill, pleaded guilty to charges of stalking that caused significant distress and harm.
Defence lawyer Mr.
Paul Cliff explained that Stacey had been held on remand for approximately six months and had completed courses aimed at addressing his behaviour.
He described Stacey as genuinely remorseful.
The judge, Recorder Jeremy Lasker, sentenced Stacey to 12 months in prison, suspended for 18 months.
Furthermore, he imposed a five-year restraining order prohibiting Stacey from contacting his victim.
The judge noted the serious distress caused to the victim and her child, referencing previous police interventions and the ongoing friction during their relationship, which ended in April 2023 after a brief reconciliation in November 2022.
The court detailed Stacey’s persistent calls and visits, his apparent use of their child as leverage, and his threats and unwanted contacts.
Although Stacey acknowledged his misconduct, it was also noted that he has issues with alcohol.
As part of his sentence, Stacey was ordered to attend a course on building better relationships, complete 20 days of rehabilitation activities, and wear a GPS tracking device for six months.
