A STALKER from Tidworth who repeatedly found ways to contact a woman despite a police warning has avoided prison.

Ian Durkin, 37, of Daunch Close, was found guilty of stalking and breach of bail back on October 14.

He was sentenced at Swindon Magistrates Court on November 19 to a 36-week prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £187. He was also given a three-year restraining order.

Between 2023 and 2024, Durkin repeatedly contacted his victim by text, letters and various apps despite her blocking him on multiple platforms.

He even turned up at her home on several occasions, including sitting outside her house on Christmas Day morning, and would turn up at different locations he knew she would be throughout the week.

He was given a warning by police not to contact his victim directly but continued to do so.

Investigator Joe Cantillon said: “Durkin’s behaviour understandably caused the victim a significant amount of stress and left her feeling frightened in her own home – the very place she should feel safe.

“By pleading not guilty he has shown no signs of remorse and no understanding of the harm he was causing to his victim. I am pleased a restraining order has been issued. I hope this provides some reassurance and closure to the victim in this case.”

To find out how to report stalking, visit www.wiltshire.police.uk