STALKER ADMITS HARASSING EX-WIFE FOLLOWING BREAKDOWN IN MARRIAGE
Michael Payton, aged 60 and currently held at HMP Preston, appeared via video link before South Cumbria Magistrates’ Court on 19 September.He admitted a single charge of harassment relating to the breach of a restraining order previously issued upon conviction.
Prosecutor Lee Dacre told the court that Payton had been given a suspended sentence by Preston Crown Court on 7 June of the previous year, after being found guilty of three counts of stalking involving his former wife.
As part of that sentence, a five-year restraining order was imposed.
Among its conditions, the order prohibited any direct or indirect contact with the victim, except through a solicitor concerning divorce matters.
Mr Dacre explained, “The defendant returned to court on 5 August 2024 for breaching that restraining order.” He continued, “There was a further harassment conviction during the active period of the suspended sentence.
On 26 February, he received a 22-month custodial sentence.
However, he was released early on 19 June this year.” The court was told that the most recent offence took place on 28 July.
On that day, the complainant was driving to work from her home when she became aware of a vehicle closely tracking her movements.
“She observed a car tailing her at every turn,” Mr Dacre said.
“The driver’s identity was initially concealed as he had his hood up.
When she stopped at traffic lights, she recognised the driver as her ex-husband.
This triggered panic.” “She contacted a colleague at work, who in turn notified the police.” Payton is reported to have followed his ex-wife for roughly 40 miles during a journey lasting about an hour, eventually being apprehended near Junction 36 of the M6.
Mr Dacre confirmed that the pursuit began in Colne and extended into Kelbrook.
Defence solicitor Michael Graham addressed the court, saying his client had not committed any offences until the middle of 2023.
He stated, “His world fell apart after the end of his marriage.
He was never given an explanation for why a relationship of over 30 years came to an end.” “There were no issues with drugs or alcohol.
He has never understood the reasons behind the separation and remains utterly perplexed.” “It has taken a toll on his mental wellbeing and had a serious psychological effect.” Mr Graham also noted that the restraining order includes a clause banning Payton from entering Colne.
He is currently being held in custody, having been recalled to prison under licence until January 2027.
Magistrates concluded that the matter should be sent to Carlisle Crown Court for sentencing on 17 October, citing limitations in their sentencing authority.
They classified the breach as an A1 offence, which the court heard carries a starting point of two years' imprisonment, within a guideline range of one to four years.
