A stalker who left a woman ‘stressed and frightened’ has avoided a prison sentence.
Ian Durkin was found guilty of stalking and breaching his bail conditions at a Swindon Magistrates’ Court on 14 October.
The 37-year-old, of Daunch Close, Tidworth, had persistently harassed the woman between August 2023 and June 2024.
He repeatedly contacted his victim by text, letters and various apps despite her blocking him on multiple platforms.
He even turned up at her home on several occasions, including sitting outside her house on Christmas Day morning, and would turn up at different locations he knew she would be throughout the week.
He was given a warning by police not to contact his victim directly but continued to do so.
At court on 19 November, Durkin was sentenced to 36 weeks’ imprisonment suspended for 18 months. He was also given a three-year restraining order.
Investigator Joe Cantillon said: “Durkin’s behaviour understandably caused the victim a significant amount of stress and left her feeling frightened in her own home – the very place she should feel safe.
“By pleading not guilty he has shown no signs of remorse and no understanding of the harm he was causing to his victim.
“I am pleased a restraining order has been issued. I hope this provides some reassurance and closure to the victim in this case.”
