A BRAVE victim’s report has led to a Stratford man being jailed for stalking.
Thomas McGinn, aged 33, was arrested in March this year after a victim disclosed that she had been stalked and subjected to coercive and controlling behaviour for months.
Detectives learned how McGinn would call the victim up to 100 times a day from withheld numbers and leave threatening voicemails.
McGinn’s behaviour continued to escalate, with him contacting a relative of the victim and turning up to places he knew the victim would be.
He created numerous fake social media profiles to harass her and sent unwanted gifts and cash transfers.
Finally, McGinn sent the victim distressing images of himself self-harming and refused to seek help or stop until she attended his address.
He was subsequently arrested and charged with controlling and coercive behaviour and stalking involving serious distress.
And on November 10 at Warwick Crown Court he was jailed for one year and four months, and three months to run concurrently – meaning the three months is served at the same time.
The judge also granted a lifetime restraining order.
Detective Constable Emma Garrett said: “The victim showed extraordinary courage in breaking the silence and reporting the abuse she endured. She was determined to seek justice and protect herself and others from harm.
“Her bravery not only brought her abuser to account, resulting in a conviction and prison sentence, but also stands as an inspiration to others who may be suffering in silence.”
