Stalker Jailed for Harassing Chester MP Samantha Dixon
Benjamin Scott-Thrale, 32, from Chester, has been sentenced for stalking and harassing Chester city centre MP Samantha Dixon. The Crown Prosecution Service revealed the disturbing saga lasted from June 2023 until January 2024.
Help Turns to Harassment
Scott-Thrale first approached Ms Dixon for help with a family matter. Despite her efforts, on 30 June 2023, Ms Dixon told him she had done all she could and advised him to seek legal advice.
That’s when Scott-Thrale’s behaviour took a dark turn. He bombarded the MP with emails, phone calls, and even showed up uninvited at her constituency office.
Threats and Intimidation
His harassment escalated with threats to damage Ms Dixon’s reputation online if she refused to help him further. On 30 January 2024, Scott-Thrale phoned the office again, demanding a face-to-face meeting and continued assistance.
Alarmed, Ms Dixon contacted the police. Scott-Thrale was arrested and charged with stalking and harassment.
Scott-Thrale defiantly said, “What’s the definition of stalking? It involves a course of conduct against one person. I haven’t stalked one person.”
Guilty Verdict and Tough Sentence
At Warrington Magistrates’ Court, Scott-Thrale was found guilty after a trial. Ms Dixon told the court his relentless pursuit caused her genuine distress and seriously affected her daily life.
He was handed an immediate six-week custodial sentence, with credit given for time already served. The court also imposed a 12-month Post Sentence Supervision.
Additionally, a two-year restraining order was granted, banning Scott-Thrale from:
- Entering the House of Commons area.
- Posting or distributing anything about Ms Dixon or her staff.
- Approaching, contacting, or following Ms Dixon by any means, including through third parties or social media.
- Entering The Bluecoat Centre in Chester.
Scott-Thrale must also pay a £154 victim surcharge.
This strong sentence sends a clear message: harassment of public officials will not be tolerated.
