Harasser Defies Restraining Order to Torment Victim
Raymond Austin, 41, ignored a strict 10-year restraining order and bombarded his victim with vile, threatening messages. Despite a court ban from 2018, Austin repeatedly harassed the woman with abusive texts.
Sentenced After Serial Harassment and Breaching Bail
Austin, from Meads Avenue, Sittingbourne, pleaded guilty to five counts of harassment. Maidstone Crown Court sentenced him on 25 May 2021, also factoring in a breach of a suspended sentence.
The original order, imposed by Medway Magistrates’ Court, was aimed at stopping Austin’s sustained abuse. But between July and November 2019, he sent numerous unwanted texts, ignoring all restrictions.
Police Catch Austin Twice After Relentless Abuse
Kent Police only learned about the offences in June 2020 when Austin hammered his victim with even more malicious messages. He was arrested and gave a no-comment interview in custody.
Initially released on strict bail conditions banning contact with his victim, Austin went back on the attack, sending further abusive messages. This led to a second arrest in November and charges of five harassment counts.
Kent Police Condemn Austin’s ‘Obsessive’ Behaviour
“Austin has demonstrated an exceptionally concerning pattern of behaviour,” said PC Zoe Hallam, lead investigator.
“The messages were disturbing, showing his obsessive determination to control and manipulate his victim.”
“Despite multiple interventions, he refused to change. There are no excuses for his actions — society must not tolerate this behaviour. I’m glad he’s received a custodial sentence and hope it reassures the victim.”
