Kempston man jailed for stalking and harassing
He has been jailed after targeting the victim over an eight-month period
A Kempston man has been jailed for two years after subjecting a woman to months of stalking and harassment that left her living in constant fear.
James Reilly, 28, of Guilas Close, targeted the victim over an eight-month period, bombarding her with voicemails, messages, and attempts to contact her via social media and gaming platforms. He also left notes on her car and at her workplace.
Despite being arrested during the campaign, Reilly repeatedly breached both a non-molestation order and court bail conditions, continuing his behaviour.
In a statement read to the court, the victim described the toll his actions had taken: “I am now in a place where I am in so much fear that I can’t even go to work without looking over my shoulder. I just want him to leave me alone. I am scared and I am simply exhausted by this situation.”
Reilly pleaded guilty to several offences, including stalking, breaching a non-molestation order, possession of an offensive weapon, possession of Class B drugs, and assaulting emergency workers.
He was sentenced at Luton Crown Court on Friday (1 August) and was also handed a 10-year restraining order.
PC Jacqui Round, from Bedfordshire Police’s Emerald team, said: “The victim endured persistent and unwanted attention that deeply affected her wellbeing and disrupted her daily life.
“We know many people delay reporting stalking until it escalates, but we urge anyone experiencing this behaviour to come forward early.
“Our priority is to support victims from the outset and hold perpetrators accountable. We use every available tool, including Stalking Protection Orders, to safeguard those at risk. No one should have to live in fear.”