Simon Anteney, 35, of Yarnbrook Gardens, Trowbridge, has been given a 20-month suspended sentence for stalking. The sentence was handed down at Bournemouth Crown Court yesterday following his guilty plea in November 2023.
Anteney relentlessly harassed his victim by sending nonstop messages, unwanted gifts, and making surprise visits to her home and workplace. His harassment escalated when he contacted her family and created false email accounts to communicate with her.
The suspended sentence comes with several tough conditions. Anteney must complete a 28-day accredited programme, participate in up to 20 days of rehabilitation activities, and complete 150 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, a five-year restraining order has been issued to protect the victim.
Local Criminal Investigator Dawson praised the victim’s courage in coming forward. He stated, “The victim showed remarkable courage coming forward. Stalking is a serious crime and Wiltshire Police are dedicated to tackling it firmly.” Dawson also urged anyone experiencing stalking to report it immediately and highlighted the support available from the Suzy Lamplugh Trust’s National Stalking Helpline at 0808 802 0300.
Stalking is a serious and disturbing crime that can involve repeated unwanted contact, following, and invading a person’s personal space. Wiltshire Police provide resources and encourage victims to seek help and report incidents through their official website. This sentencing underlines law enforcement’s commitment to cracking down on stalking and imposing stiff penalties on offenders.
Originally published by UKNIP.
