A man who repeatedly stalked a woman in Swindon, leaving her fearing for her safety, has pleaded guilty to the offence.
Steffon Wood, 37, of Long Ford Close in Oxford, appeared at Swindon Magistrates’ Court on Friday, January 23, where he admitted stalking involving fear of violence against a woman in her 30s.
Wood was remanded into custody and is due to be sentenced on February 12.
The court heard that between January 15 and January 19, Wood contacted the victim more than 200 times, sending abusive messages and repeatedly attending her home. His actions breached both his bail conditions and a Domestic Violence Protection Order which had been put in place to safeguard the victim.
Following public appeals to locate him, Wood was arrested and charged.
The prosecution followed joint work between Swindon’s Volume Crime Team and Swindon Response officers, who worked together to build the case and secure his arrest.
Trainee Detective Constable Murat said Wood’s behaviour had shown a complete disregard for court orders and the victim’s safety.
“Wood showed absolutely no remorse for his actions despite repeatedly breaching his bail conditions,” he said. “He called and sent abusive messages to the victim and attended her address, banging on her windows and door, leaving her genuinely fearful for her safety.
“I am pleased the court has remanded him into custody ahead of sentencing. Wood presents a clear risk to the victim, and this outcome reflects the seriousness with which stalking offences are treated, as well as the importance of safeguarding those affected.”
Wiltshire Police has urged anyone who believes they may be experiencing stalking to seek support and report concerns. Information on recognising and reporting stalking and harassment is available via the Wiltshire Police website.
