Drug Dealer and Stalker Marcus Towner Jailed for Over Four Years
Marcus Towner has been locked up for four years and two months after being convicted not only of stalking and abusive behaviour but also massive drug supply offences involving cocaine and cannabis worth tens of thousands of pounds.
Relentless Abuse Led to Victim’s Life in Ruins
Towner’s nightmare began with his arrest in February 2021 over sustained abuse allegations. The victim, a woman, endured repeated physical assaults, threats against her and her family, and relentless harassment. An investigation revealed Towner’s oppressive control forced her to change jobs and even alter her appearance to avoid him. Despite pleas for peace, Towner repeatedly showed up where she stayed and bombarded her with threatening calls.
Dramatic Arrest: Cocaine and Cannabis Worth £30K Seized
On April 6, 2021, police stormed a property in Ryarsh, West Malling, acting under a Misuse of Drugs Act warrant. Towner tried to escape by jumping from a balcony with a holdall but was caught by officers. Inside the bag were 12 bags of cocaine worth nearly £17,000 and 47 bags of cannabis valued at over £13,000.
Court Sentence and Aftermath
At Maidstone Crown Court, Towner pleaded guilty to stalking with fear of violence and possession of drugs with intent to supply. A controlling or coercive behaviour charge was also noted by the court. From his West Malling home, he was handed a lengthy prison term and will face a five-year restraining order after release.
Detective Constable Luke Statham of the West Kent Vulnerability Investigation Team said: “Towner subjected his victim to repeated and sustained psychological abuse and his actions have impacted deeply on both her working and personal life. The harassment was relentless and has caused a huge amount of distress, fear and anxiety. We are grateful that the victim has shown tremendous courage in coming forward and helping us secure this important sentence. I would also like to remind people there is a wealth of support on offer to anyone who is suffering this kind of abuse.”