Puligadda Sai, 29, from Fore Street, Trowbridge, has been fined after pleading guilty to a section five public order offence for following a teenager in his car for 30 minutes. The incident took place on September 18, around 6 pm, and resulted in the teenager calling 999 in fear for her safety.
Incident Details
The court heard that Sai followed the 18-year-old female as she walked home from Trowbridge train station towards Staverton. Sai, who had left a pub, drove slowly behind and alongside her, matching her walking pace and at times holding up traffic. Despite the extended period he trailed her, there was no conversation between them. Feeling increasingly frightened and fearing for her safety, the teenager eventually called emergency services.
At Salisbury Magistrates Court on October 18, Sai admitted to the offence of using threatening, abusive, or insulting words or behavior with intent to cause fear or provoke unlawful violence.
Court Decision and Sentencing
Sai was fined £415 for his actions and ordered to pay £50 in compensation to his victim. He was also required to pay a £166 victim surcharge and £85 in court costs.
The victim described her panic during the incident, saying she feared she was going to be kidnapped.
Police Response
Local Crime Investigator Shonna O’Harney expressed the seriousness of the case: “This was an extremely concerning and frightening incident for the victim, who feared for her safety as a result of Sai’s actions. The way that Sai behaved was completely unacceptable.
She added, “Everyone should be able to feel safe walking home and should not be subjected to this kind of behaviour, especially in broad daylight. I would like to thank the victim for coming forward and reporting this to the police. I hope that this sends a strong message out to the public that this kind of behaviour is not acceptable in our communities, and we will act robustly to bring these offenders before the courts to get justice for the victims.
Wiltshire Police continue to urge anyone experiencing or witnessing similar behaviour to report it immediately, ensuring the safety and protection of all community members.
