Over 400 Arrests in Crackdown on Stalking in Nottinghamshire
More than 400 suspects have been arrested and questioned in the last year as Nottinghamshire Police toughen up their approach to stalking offences. Charges were filed 175 times — a jump of over 40 per cent compared to the previous year.
Courts Clamp Down with More Stalking Protection Orders
With victims increasingly stepping forward, the force has boosted the use of strict court orders to control perpetrators. Sixteen Stalking Protection Orders were issued in the last financial year alone. These legal measures ban offenders from contacting victims or carrying out specific actions.
Every breach of these orders counts as a separate offence and can lead to jail time.
Police Say They’re Fighting for Victims
“As a police officer I obviously want to see people charged, convicted and jailed for these appalling offences, but there are many other things we do to help and protect victims,” said stalking lead Detective Chief Inspector Jo Elbourn at the start of National Stalking Awareness Week.
“Our priority is to assess the threat, safeguard victims, and stop the behaviour they fear. We take an early, robust stance against alleged stalkers to send a clear warning.”
Stalking Defined — And What Gets You Banged Up
Stalking involves a pattern of obsessive, fixated, unwanted and repeated acts. This can happen face-to-face or online via social media.
- Following victims
- Unwanted contact
- Publishing material about them
- Spying or monitoring
- Interfering with property
Nottinghamshire Police receive about 100 stalking reports every month, mostly involving women being harassed by former or current male partners.
“We’re using Stalking Protection Orders more in high-risk cases. They take time to get but give us serious power to stop ongoing harassment,” said DCI Elbourn.
“Breach one and you’re heading for prison. These orders are well respected, giving victims crucial breathing space whilst we investigate.”
“Policing has come a long way in ten years. Stalkers in Nottinghamshire are more likely than ever to face justice — and that’s a win for victims.”
“Still, many victims hesitate to come forward — sometimes unaware what they are experiencing counts as stalking. During National Stalking Awareness Week, we want victims and their loved ones to know help is ready and waiting.”
