400+ Suspects Arrested as Nottinghamshire Police Crack Down Hard on Stalking
Surge in Charges and Stronger Protections for Victims
Nottinghamshire Police have ramped up their crackdown on stalking, arresting over 400 suspects in the past year. Charges soared by more than 40%, with 175 cases brought forward – sending a clear warning to offenders.
The force has also issued 16 restrictive Stalking Protection Orders (SPOs) in the last financial year, clamping down harder on perpetrators. These orders can ban offenders from contacting victims or taking certain actions, running alongside criminal prosecutions.
Breaking an SPO is a criminal offence, carrying the risk of jail time.
Detective Chief Inspector Sounds Off on Police Action
At the launch of National Stalking Awareness Week, DCI Jo Elbourn said: “We want to see offenders charged, convicted and jailed. But protecting victims is about more than just that.”
She added: “Our priority is understanding the threat level, safeguarding victims, and stopping stalking behaviour early.”
DCI Elbourn explains Nottinghamshire Police’s tough, early-arrest strategy aims to send a clear message to offenders about zero tolerance.
What Counts as Stalking?
- Following or persistent unwanted contact
- Publishing unwanted material about the victim
- Monitoring or spying
- Interfering with property
These obsessive behaviours can happen face-to-face or online, with social media a common tool. Around 100 reports flood in monthly, mostly involving male ex- or current partners harassing female victims.
Victims Urged to Speak Out
DCI Elbourn highlights a major hurdle: “Some victims are reluctant to come forward, while others don’t realise what they’re experiencing is stalking.”
She insists: “During National Stalking Awareness Week, we want victims and their families to know help is ready and waiting. We take stalking seriously and will do everything to protect you.”
