Puligadda Sai, 29, of Fore Street, Trowbridge, has been fined £415 after admitting to stalking an 18-year-old girl by car for approximately 30 minutes in broad daylight.
The incident occurred on September 18 at around 6pm when Sai followed the teenager as she walked home from Trowbridge train station towards Staverton. Having just left a local pub, Sai drove slowly alongside her, matching her pace and causing traffic delays.
The prolonged and unsettling pursuit involved no direct interaction, but left the girl so frightened that she called 999 fearing she might be kidnapped.
At Salisbury Magistrates Court on October 18, Sai pleaded guilty to using threatening and abusive behaviour intended to provoke fear or violence. In addition to the £415 fine, he was ordered to pay £50 in compensation to the victim, a £166 victim surcharge, and £85 in court costs.
Describing her experience, the victim said, “I feared I was going to be kidnapped,” highlighting the panic she felt during the ordeal.
Local Crime Investigator Shonna O’Harney condemned Sai’s actions, stating, “This was an extremely concerning and frightening incident for the victim, who feared for her safety as a result of Sai’s actions. The way Sai behaved was completely unacceptable. Everyone should be able to feel safe walking home and should not be subjected to this kind of behaviour, especially in broad daylight. I would like to thank the victim for coming forward and reporting this to the police.”
She added, “I hope this sends a strong message that such behaviour won’t be tolerated and offenders will be brought before the courts to get justice for victims.”
Wiltshire Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any similar stalking or threatening behaviour immediately. They emphasised that keeping communities safe is a top priority and that they will act swiftly against offenders.
Originally published by UKNIP.
