MICHAEL GIBBON

A man from Sunderland, Michael Gibbon, aged 41, faces potential jail time after being found guilty of a six-month harassment campaign against a female fitness instructor.

Gibbon, who has no prior convictions, was convicted of stalking behaviors that included approaching her twice at a Sunderland gym, causing her visible distress.

During the first incident, she had to be escorted to her vehicle after Gibbon left her upset, and during the second encounter, she was compelled to tell him to leave her alone.

His campaign spanned from February 17 to August 1 of the previous year and culminated in him delivering unsolicited, rambling letters to her home, one of which was delivered in person while her daughter was home alone.

Gibbon’s actions, which included sending letters referencing issues at the gym and her supposed friendliness, were described by prosecutors as fixated and obsessional.

Witnesses reported seeing her visibly upset and alarmed during the incidents.

Gibbon was found guilty of a charge of stalking without causing fear, alarm, or distress.

His defense argued that his actions were influenced by mental health issues and lacked malicious intent, but the court rejected these claims.

Gibbon is scheduled for sentencing on July 17 and has been granted bail with conditions to avoid contact with the victim and not to attend the gym or her residence.