Hiding in wardrobe and breaching restraining order – Brighton man locked up
A Brighton man who repeatedly broke a restraining order — even hiding in his victim’s wardrobe — has been jailed.
Leon Chart’s stalking spree
Leon Chart, 42, of no fixed address, was banned from contacting or entering the home of a woman he previously harmed. He was convicted of actual bodily harm and criminal damage back in 2020.
But in the early hours of November 21, police caught him sneaking into her Portslade home through the back door. CCTV footage gave him away. Officers then found Chart hiding in a bedroom cupboard.
He was arrested for breaching the restraining order. Yet the harassment didn’t stop there.
Violent assault and repeated contact
The victim came forward, revealing Chart had violently attacked her on October 23. He also contacted her again on November 18, trapping her into a face-to-face meeting despite the order.
When Chart violated his prison licence conditions on November 25, cops issued a warrant and launched a manhunt while continuing to support the victim.
More threats lead to jail
On January 4, 2022, the woman reported Chart phoned her, claiming to watch her and making threats. Police tracked the call and arrested him.
He was charged with four counts of harassment for breaching the restraining order and one count of assault.
On March 2, Lewes Crown Court sentenced Chart to 32 months in prison — eight months for each harassment charge, served back to back, plus a concurrent three months for assault.
Detective’s warning and victim support
“The persistent harassment and violence had a devastating impact on the victim, physically and mentally,” said Detective Sergeant Steph Bell.
“Chart was a committed offender with a history of violent and threatening behaviour. We hope this jail sentence brings some peace of mind to the victim, who will continue to get our full support.”
“If you’re a victim of harassment or crime, report it online, by calling 101, or dial 999 in an emergency.”
