A 54-year-old man from Sixpenny Handley has been handed a suspended prison sentence for stalking a woman in Salisbury. Michael Chown pleaded guilty at Salisbury Crown Court on November 1 to stalking without fear or distress. He was sentenced to 36 weeks behind bars, suspended for two years, along with a string of tough penalties.
Between September and November 2023, Chown bombarded his victim with unwanted contact. Despite police warnings, he showed up repeatedly outside her home and sent persistent letters and phone messages. The victim told the court, “He has destroyed me,” revealing the emotional damage caused by Chown’s obsessive behaviour.
The court imposed several conditions on Chown including a £187 victim surcharge, 200 hours of unpaid work, participation in a 43-day Accredited Programme, up to 5 days Rehabilitation Activity Requirement, and an indefinite restraining order.
In a heartfelt statement, the victim described how what started as chance encounters soon became a nightmare. “When I first met Michael, it was outside my house… I assumed it was a coincidence… But now I know I was wrong. He became obsessed with me, and I can’t take it anymore,” she said.
Crime Investigator Humby condemned Chown’s behaviour, calling it “appalling psychological abuse” that left the victim fearful and anxious. He revealed the woman had to change her daily routines to avoid the stalker. “The harassment was relentless,” said Humby, praising the victim for having the bravery to speak out.
Wiltshire Police urges anyone experiencing stalking to report it immediately, reminding the public it is a serious offence. For more information and support, visit the official police website.
Originally published by UKNIP.
