Stalker jailed for creeping into sleeping victim's home and kissing her

16 November 2019, 19:12

A stalker who crept into his sleeping victim's home and kissed her has been jailed for eight years.

Ian Essom, 41, snuck into the property at around 1am on 18 November 2018 and restrained the woman when she tried to get him away from her, Aylesbury Crown Court was told.

He was found guilty of trespassing with intent to commit a sexual offence following a one-day trial in May.

Now, in addition to his prison term Essom has been placed on the sex offenders register for life.

Essom, from Northampton, was previously given a two-year restraining order in August 2018 after repeatedly staring at a 21-year-old woman as she worked late shifts at a petrol station in April of that year.

Following his arrest, he was found guilty of harassment and given a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, police said.

Speaking after Essom was jailed on Thursday, Detective Constable Kim McHugh said: "I would like to thank the victim for coming forward to police and for supporting us with the investigation.

"She has shown great strength in giving evidence at trial.

"Thames Valley Police does not tolerate this behaviour and we will work tirelessly to investigate thoroughly and bring offenders to justice.

"I hope this conviction gives others the confidence to come forward and make a report to the police."