A 41-year-old man has become the first in Nottinghamshire to be sentenced for breaching a Stalking Protection Order.
Christopher Kellam, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two three month terms to run concurrently, suspended for twelve months, at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday 27 April. He was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge.
Kellam was given the order on 8 April 2020, to last for two years. The order was sought after Kellham persisted in sending unwanted letters and messages to the victim.
He breached the order on two counts by not having his GPS tag charged and failing to notify police of a change of address. He was arrested on 23 April 2020.
The Stalking Protection Act came into effect on 20 January 2020 and allows courts to impose civil Stalking Protection Orders that enforce conditions on those suspected of stalking.
Kate Reece, Safeguarding and Stalking Officer, said: “I’m delighted that we were granted this stalking protection order as another tool to protect a victim from stalking and harassment.
“This sentence is believed to be one of the first in the country for breach of a Stalking Protection Order and I would like to thank our officers for all of their hard work in showing Nottinghamshire Police’s commitment to tackling stalking.
“I hope this sends out a message that a breach of a Stalking Protection Order is a criminal offence and there will be consequences for those who don’t abide by them.
“If you think you or someone you know may be a victim or perpetrator of stalking you should ring 101 to report to Police or you can get help and advice from the Stalking Advocacy Service on 0115 947 6490 (for women) or 0115 960 5556 (for men).”
