TOBY DAWSON FROM SPALDING JAILED FOR COERCIVE BEHAVIOUR AND THREATS

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Spalding, Toby Dawson, a 25-year-old man, has been sentenced to 26 months in prison after admitting to serious allegations of coercive and controlling behaviour, as well as making threats to distribute an intimate video of his teenage victim.

The disturbing campaign of harassment by Dawson spanned over a month and a half, beginning on February 22 and concluding on April 4 of this year. During this period, Dawson subjected his young victim to relentless psychological pressure, bombarding her with hundreds of phone calls and text messages. His tactics included making her believe that he had shared an intimate video of her with her family, a threat that was intended to instill fear and exert control over her.

Court reports detailed how Dawson forced his victim to keep her phone line open to him at all times, effectively monitoring her communications and restricting her freedom. Witnesses and officials described how he regularly made degrading and humiliating comments towards her, further intensifying the emotional trauma she endured.

The court also heard that Dawson threatened to disclose sexual images of her to her family, a move designed to manipulate and dominate her through fear of exposure. The impact of his actions has been described as profoundly damaging to the victim’s mental health and well-being.

Dawson pleaded guilty to two charges: engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and threatening to disclose intimate material. His sentencing reflects the severity of his conduct and the harm caused to his victim, highlighting the ongoing issues surrounding coercive control and abuse within relationships.