NOTTINGHAMSHIRE MAN SENTENCED FOR RELENTLESS STALKING AND HARASSMENT
Matthew Johnstone, a 39-year-old man from Nottinghamshire, was involved in a relentless stalking incident where he called a woman over 160 times in a single day and used his family members to message her on his behalf.The calls occurred between June 8 and 9, 2024, and the messages were pleading for the woman to speak to him.
Despite already being under a 10-year restraining order, Johnstone violated this order multiple times, breaching it in May and June of 2024.
He pleaded guilty to three counts of harassment and a charge of stalking during the court proceedings.
As a result, he was sentenced to 10 months in prison at Nottingham Magistrates' Court on December 30, 2024.
Additionally, an indefinite stalking protection order was issued against him on February 24, which warns that any breach could lead to a five-year prison sentence.
Nottinghamshire Police emphasized their commitment to victim safety and took measures to prosecute Johnstone, including securing the protection order, with police officers highlighting their efforts to ensure ongoing support for victims.
Police case-building officer Paula Roker stated: "This victim was subjected to relentless contact from Johnstone who used any means he could to try and make contact with her including using his own family members to send messages to her.
Unfortunately for him, the victim was able to come forward and support a prosecution including the application for a stalking protection order which was granted.
I hope she can now move forward with her life." Superintended Heather Maelor also stressed the force’s dedication to combating violence against women and girls, urging victims and their friends to report any incidents to the police, reaffirming the support and safety provided.
