Man Jailed for Faking Girlfriend’s Stalker Nightmare
A man who fooled his girlfriend into thinking she was being stalked has landed behind bars after a relentless police probe. Rhodri Harries bombarded his ex with a barrage of fake messages to test her loyalty, shocking investigators with his “bizarre and wicked” behaviour.
Twisted Plot Uncovered by Police
Dyfed-Powys Police cracked the case after linking Harries to a relentless stream of calls and texts that left the victim terrified. Temporary Detective Inspector Matthew Briggs revealed the drama started in August 2019 when the victim reported mysterious messages from a fake social media account.
“The victim received 118 calls and 84 messages in a short time, making her think she was being followed,” said T/DI Briggs. “She was so scared she slept with weapons nearby.”
Police quickly targeted Harries after spotting a suspicious message referencing a private conversation he overheard. Tracking phone top-ups and using cell site analysis nailed his movements to the fake messages.
Caught Red-Handed and Sentenced
Harries, 35, of Maesywerin, Ammanford, was arrested after turning up uninvited at the victim’s home during a police statement. A phone linked to him was found hidden in her garden.
He faced charges of controlling and coercive behaviour and was sentenced to 12 months in prison with an indefinite restraining order at Swansea Crown Court on December 4.
“His behaviour was described as ‘bizarre and wicked’ — just as damaging as a physical assault,” said T/DI Briggs. “This was emotional violence that left the victim anxious, paranoid, and living in constant fear.”
Police Praise Victim’s Bravery
Officers credited the thorough investigation for preventing something far worse. T/DI Briggs added: “Domestic abuse doesn’t always leave visible scars. Emotional control is a brutal weapon these offenders use. Harries’s actions had a profound impact on his victim’s life.”
Police also commended the victim for her courage in coming forward and sticking with the investigation.
