Mark Bowler, from Englishcombe Lane in Bath, has been sentenced to 20 weeks in prison, suspended for two years, following a stalking and harassment case in Chippenham. Bowler admitted his guilt at Salisbury Magistrates Court on Monday, 24 June 2024.
Bowler’s campaign of harassment began in January 2024, when he sent numerous emails and social media messages to his victims. Initially annoying, the messages soon took on a threatening tone. In March, Bowler escalated his stalking by locating one victim’s workplace and repeatedly attending while pretending to be different people.
The victims reported these incidents to Wiltshire Police on 7 March 2024, which led to Bowler’s arrest earlier in June.
At sentencing, Bowler received 16 weeks in prison for stalking and 4 weeks for harassment, with the sentences to run consecutively. Both sentences were suspended for two years. Additionally, Bowler was issued a three-year restraining order. He must also pay £154 in victim costs and £400 towards legal fees.
Lead investigator LCI O’Harney praised the victims’ bravery, stating, “I’d like to thank the victims for their courage in reporting these stalking and harassment incidents and their resilience during the investigation.” O’Harney added, “Bowler showed blatant disregard for people’s safety and property. His invasive actions caused victims to live in fear.”
Wiltshire Police encourage anyone suffering from stalking or harassment to come forward. “We understand how hard it can be but officers and partner organisations are ready to help and support you,” said O’Harney. For more information on reporting stalking and harassment, visit the official Wiltshire Police website.
Originally published by UKNIP.
