CARLISLE MAN CONVICTED OF STALKING EX-GIRLFRIEND WITH ABUSIVE TEXTS AND BEHAVIORS
A man named Simon Cowen, aged 58, appeared in court for his involvement in stalking his ex-girlfriend during a period of relentless unwanted contact.The court heard that Cowen and the woman had previously been in a relationship that encountered difficulties; she discovered he was unfaithful and was seeing prostitutes.
Although they briefly reconciled, she ultimately decided she could not trust him and requested space.
Cowen then started sending her numerous messages that ranged from kind to abusive, including many threatening texts.
Between December 22, 2024, and February 14, 2025, Cowen engaged in stalking behavior by sending hundreds of abusive messages, driving past her home multiple times, and even sending her an upsetting photograph and a Christmas card containing £100, which she returned.
The victim described how Cowen’s behavior had severely impacted her, stating: "He obliterated any trust in the relationship through prolific lying and manipulation.
He made me feel I was losing my mind.
My head has been a total mess due to his persistent gas-lighting.
I have felt unsafe in my home because of this.
I feel unsafe everywhere I go." She also reported that Cowen used emotional blackmail and narcissistic abuse, which shattered her self-esteem.
Due to this harassment, she had to leave her home for a week and was prescribed sleeping tablets.
Cowen admitted to stalking involving serious alarm or distress, and the case was adjourned for sentencing at a future date.
Meanwhile, he is under strict conditions prohibiting any contact with the woman.
SENTENCING UPDATE - Cowen was handed an immediate 24-week prison sentence.
He was also made subject to a five-year restraining order.
This means he must not have any contact with the woman not enter a specified road in Carlisle during that period of time.
