A NEWPORT MAN HAS BEEN JAILED FOR REPEATEDLY DISTURBING AND HARASSING A FEMALE COLLEAGUE AT A LOCAL CHARITY STORE, CULMINATING IN UNWANTED SEXUAL ADVANCES.
Nicholas Collins, who resides in Newport, became fixated on the woman he met at the charity shop where he volunteered, leading to a series of inappropriate behaviors.At Cardiff Crown Court on August 21, the 55-year-old was found guilty by a jury and sentenced to serve two years behind bars.
It was revealed during the trial that Collins made numerous unsolicited sexual comments and advances toward his victim while on duty.
He also gave her inappropriate gifts and appeared at the shop outside his assigned hours, even after being suspended.
The court also discussed Collins’ prior conduct, indicating a pattern of similar behavior toward other women.
In her victim impact statement, the woman described how Collins’ conduct had negatively affected her on various levels—emotionally, physically, socially, and professionally—adding that she no longer feels she can be her true self or trust anyone.
DC Leah Baker, the lead investigator, commented: “Collins engaged in a seven-month period of intimidating and predatory actions against the victim, who managed the charity shop and volunteered there.
“Despite her making it clear she wasn’t interested, Collins persisted with sexual remarks, messages, and inappropriate gifts.
“Stalking can have severe consequences, and Collins’ persistent behavior caused the victim to change her daily routines, including her commute and appearance, leading to great distress.
“His repeated targeting of women displays a blatant disregard for their safety, making him a dangerous individual.
I hope this sentence reassures victims that such conduct is taken seriously and that offenders will face justice.” Nicholas Collins received a two-year custodial sentence and was subject to an indefinite restraining order.
