A secret listening device was concealed by a West Malling man during a campaign of abuse against a woman who had been his partner for almost 20 years.

Jimmy Lovelock also hid GPS trackers in the victim’s car as he sought to establish influence and control over almost every aspect of her life.

Lovelock was arrested in May 2024 and a Kent Police investigation included allegations he had assaulted and made threats to harm the victim over several years.

He also made demands relating to her use of phones and social media, which led to the victim being isolated from friends and family.

In 2023, Lovelock began to mysteriously appear in places the victim had also been visiting. By February the following year, she discovered tracking devices hidden in her vehicle, along with a listening device in her home.

The investigation also revealed that shortly before his arrest Lovelock had smashed the victim’s car windscreen following an argument. In a separate incident the woman also found her car tyres had been slashed.

Guilty

At Maidstone Crown Court, Lovelock pleaded guilty to charges of controlling and coercive behaviour (from May 2022 to May 2024) and causing actual bodily harm.

He also admitted possessing a Taser device and cannabis. Two further charges, including witness intimidation, were ordered by the court to lie on file.

On Friday 13 June 2025, Lovelock, 43, of no fixed address, was sentenced to 20 months’ imprisonment (minus time spent on remand).

He was also made subject of a restraining order lasting 10 years.