Denbighshire man becomes first in North Wales to receive Stalking Prevention Order after spying on victims

A man from Denbighshire has become the first person in North Wales to receive a Stalking Prevention order after following and spying on people.

Legislation was introduced in January this year to address stalking related behaviour and it is the first time such an order has been granted to North Wales Police.

The order will last for three years and is designed to allow early police intervention, in some circumstances pre-conviction, to tackle problems before they escalate and more serious harm is caused.

Strategic Domestic Abuse Officer PC Mike Taggart who was closely involved in the application for the order said: “These orders are an effective way of managing an alleged suspect – they are not an alternative to prosecution, but they do help in providing victims with long term safeguarding.

“People may not know that they are being stalked, but we want to highlight that stalkers are fixated and obsessed with their victims – when this pattern emerges, they are unfortunately subjected to these unwanted and repeated behaviours, which can have a big impact on their life and well-being.

“The victims who have the first order in place in North Wales have gone through this for a number of years, and have since expressed their gratitude at the order being imposed, and shared their relief in that they have protection that will prevent them being further victimised.”

Supt Gareth Evans, head of the force’s Protection of Vulnerable People Unit (PVPU) said: “Stalking or harassment investigations can be complex, requiring a full investigation of the history of incidents to identify patterns of behaviour.

“Stalking Prevention Orders will now form a vital part of our safeguarding processes, whereby any suspect who breaches an order can face imprisonment of up to five years.

“This is irrespective of whether or not they are subsequently prosecuted for a stalking offence.”

If you are concerned that you may be a victim of stalking, contact police.

Non-Emergency: https://www.north-wales.police.uk/contact/live-chat-support or call police on 101

Emergency: Please dial 999

Other ways to access help:

National Stalking Helpline: 0808 802 0300 or www.suzylamplugh.org

Paladin National Stalking Advocacy Service – Paladin is a trauma-informed service established to assist high risk victims of stalking in England and Wales. 020 3866 4107.

Cyber Stalking – www.getsafeonline.org

Action against Stalking – support@actionagainststalking.org