A man from West Malling has been jailed after planting GPS trackers in his partner’s car and a secret listening device in her home during a two-year campaign of abuse and control.
Jimmy Lovelock, 43, was sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday, 13 June 2025, to 20 months’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to controlling and coercive behaviour, actual bodily harm, and possessing a taser and cannabis.
Years of Coercion and Threats
The victim had been in a relationship with Lovelock for nearly 20 years before his arrest in May 2024. According to Kent Police, Lovelock used fear, intimidation, and surveillance tactics to control nearly every aspect of the woman’s life.
From May 2022 to May 2024, he repeatedly assaulted her, made violent threats, and dictated her use of phones and social media, isolating her from family and friends.
By early 2024, she discovered that Lovelock had secretly placed GPS tracking devices in her vehicle and a listening device hidden in her flat. The investigation also linked him to slashed tyres and a smashed car windscreen, both incidents occurring shortly before his arrest.
Victim Threatened with Arson and Death
Detective Constable Hannah Meehan, of Kent Police, said:
“Lovelock made relentless threats to hurt and kill the victim, including threats to burn down her flat with her inside. His behaviour was aimed at total domination through fear and control.”
“This custodial sentence offers the victim the time and space to begin recovering and moving on with her life.”
Sentencing and Restraining Order
In addition to his prison sentence (which accounts for time already served on remand), Lovelock was made the subject of a 10-year restraining order, prohibiting any contact with the victim.
Two further charges, including witness intimidation, were left to lie on file.
Police Urge Domestic Abuse Victims to Seek Help
Kent Police reaffirmed its commitment to tackling domestic abuse and encouraged anyone experiencing similar coercion to come forward or ask someone they trust for help.
“Nobody should feel they don’t have the option to walk away,” said DC Meehan.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, contact Kent Police on 101 or call 999 in an emergency. Help is also available through the National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247.
