Stalker's Relentless Campaign of Harassment
A man from Warwickshire has been sentenced to prison for conducting an extensive and distressing stalking campaign against a woman. Thomas McGinn, aged 33, from Stratford-upon-Avon, subjected his victim to months of coercive and controlling behaviour, creating a climate of fear and distress.
A Torrent of Unwanted Contact and Threats
McGinn's harassment was relentless and multi-faceted. His methods included:
- Making up to 100 phone calls per day from withheld numbers.
- Leaving threatening voicemails for the victim.
- Creating fake social media profiles to further harass her.
- Following her to locations where he knew she would be.
- Contacting one of the victim's relatives.
- Sending unwanted gifts and cash transfers.
The situation escalated dramatically when McGinn sent the woman distressing images of himself self-harming. He reportedly refused to seek help or stop his behaviour unless she attended his address, placing immense psychological pressure on her.
Justice Served with Prison Sentence and Lifetime Ban
The victim showed immense bravery by contacting Warwickshire Police in March to report the abuse she had endured for months. McGinn was subsequently arrested and charged with controlling and coercive behaviour and stalking involving serious distress.
On November 10 at Warwick Crown Court, he was sentenced to one year and four months in prison, with a further three months to run concurrently. Crucially, the judge also granted a lifetime restraining order, which permanently prohibits him from contacting his victim.
Following the hearing, Detective Constable Emma Garrett praised the victim's courage. She stated, "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."
