MAN STALKS UK WOMAN FOR 18 MONTHS, GETS 29 MONTHS IN JAIL
An Indian national received a 29-month prison sentence at Isleworth Crown Court after admitting to stalking a woman over an 18-month period, police reported on Thursday.Rohit Sharma, aged 28, was sentenced to 22 months for stalking, six months for harassment, and an additional month for failing to attend court.
The judge also indicated that Sharma, an Indian citizen, might face deportation after serving his sentence.
The police stated that Sharma began his campaign of harassment after an incident in November 2017, when he was served in a shop in Wembley.
Following that brief encounter, he returned later that day with his father and asked the woman to marry him.
Four days later, the victim changed her workplace, but Sharma tracked her down and secured her phone number.
His behavior intensified, and he started sending her numerous messages via phone, texts, and social media platforms.
The woman reported Sharma to authorities, leading to a harassment warning issued in February 2018.
Despite this, Sharma continued his persistent campaigns, which included receiving up to 40 calls daily and him constantly watching her at work.
In July 2018, he faced harassment charges but ignored bail conditions and continued to pursue her.
After missing a court appearance in November 2018, police issued a warrant for his arrest.
His stalking persisted to such an extent that the woman was driven to quit her job and relocate to escape him.
Nevertheless, Sharma escalated his efforts by contacting her acquaintances in an attempt to locate her.
On April 16, 2019, police apprehended Sharma after intelligence linked him to an address in Wembley.
The victim shared her emotional toll, stating: “This whole experience has completely shattered my nerves.
I have gone from being confident to feeling constantly scared and anxious.
It has impacted my social life and my time at university in ways I never imagined.” She expressed confusion over Sharma's obsession, emphasized her hope for justice, and stated her relief at his confinement, which she hopes will prevent him from harming others.
Detective Constable Nicola Kerry from Scotland Yard highlighted the damaging effects of such behavior, explaining that stalking creates feelings of vulnerability and distress.
She noted Sharma's relentless pursuit, including using multiple phone numbers and involving friends and family to contact her.
She commended the victim’s bravery in reporting him and supporting the case, expressing the hope that Sharma’s imprisonment provides her some peace.
