Arsonist Sentenced After Burning Woman’s Home and Orchestrating Months of Abuse
A 24-year-old man set fire to a woman’s family home, trashed her bedroom, and launched months of harassment before finally landing a hefty jail term.
Four Years for Dagenham Man’s Terror Campaign
Harry Page, of Hedgemans Road, Dagenham, was sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday, 26 July. The court hit him with four years in prison plus a 10-year restraining order banning him from contacting the victim and her family.
Page pleaded guilty to arson, burglary, stalking causing serious alarm or distress, assault, and sharing private sexual images to cause distress. Judges branded him a dangerous offender, meaning after jail, he’ll spend two more years on licence.
Horrific Attack Caught on Video Call
It all started when the victim was out for lunch with friends. A video call suddenly showed Page inside her Chelmsford home.
- Police found he’d forced entry via the back door.
- Her bedroom was left wrecked, with hundreds of pounds in damage.
- Page harassed her relentlessly, calling over 40 times while she gave a police statement.
- He also bombarded her friends with threatening calls and emails.
Later that day, officers spotted smoke from the house. The back room was ablaze. Page admitted setting the fire, causing over £200,000 in damage and destroying priceless memories.
Victim’s Bravery Praised as Police Warn Others
“He took my life without killing me,” said the victim, describing the devastating impact of Page’s actions.
Detective Jenny Clarke, leading the Domestic Abuse Investigation Team, slammed Page as “despicable” and praised the victim’s courage. “Page would have carried on tormenting her if she hadn’t stood up. People like her make us fight every day to bring offenders to justice.”
Get Help if You’re Being Abused or Harassed
If you or someone you know faces abuse, stalking or harassment, report it immediately.
- If you need urgent help but can’t speak safely, dial 999 and press 55 to alert the operator silently.
- Use Clare’s Law to check if your partner has a violent past.
- Clear your browsing history after searching for safety advice to stay protected.
- Visit the SETDAB website for local support and resources.
