MIDDLESBROUGH MAN SENTENCED TO PRISON FOR STALKING AND SEXUAL ASSAULT
Lee Dooley, 38, from Middlesbrough, engaged in a lengthy and frightening campaign of stalking against a woman over several months, beginning towards the end of 2024.His actions escalated from repeated calls to the victim, as well as visits to her home and workplace, to making threatening statements to her, her family, and friends.
He even threatened to smash her windows and showed up outside her house.
The most disturbing incident involved Dooley entering her home without permission and sexually assaulting her.
Following her bravery in reporting the assault to police in June 2025, authorities initiated an investigation.
Dooley was subsequently arrested and faced charges of stalking with fear of violence and sexual assault.
He pled guilty in court, and on July 15th, he was sentenced to serve 28 months in prison.
Additionally, he was subjected to a 15-year restraining order and was placed on the Sex Offender's Register for 10 years.
Investigating officer PC Waites stated, “Dooley’s escalating behaviour was extremely concerning and caused a huge amount of fear and distress to the victim who bravely came forward to report what was happening.
Stalking is a terrifying crime which often has a lasting impact on victims.
We take this kind of offending extremely seriously as a force and we will continue to do all we can to arrest perpetrators and protect victims.” He urged anyone being stalked or harassed to report it to 101, emphasizing support and assistance for victims.
