London Zoo stalker faces jail for harassment

Asish Jose Paul, a 26-year-old man, is facing jail time for stalking a female colleague at London Zoo. He repeatedly sent flowers and chocolates to Lutaruta Masiulonyte, despite being warned to stay away. The stalking occurred between July 2024 and December 2024. After his first arrest, he was released on bail with orders not to return to the zoo, but he went back the very next day. He expressed feelings of "love" for Masiulonyte to others at the zoo. It was reported in court that Masiulonyte became uncomfortable with Paul's attention. She had asked him to stop contacting her and explained that his actions made her feel scared and upset. In a victim impact statement, she mentioned that the harassment affected her emotional and psychological well-being. She now feels anxious and relies on friends or family for safety. Paul initially pleaded not guilty but changed his plea on the day of the trial to guilty of stalking. His defense argued that while his behavior was persistent, there were no inappropriate comments in his messages. He has recently completed a master's degree in accounting and finance. The judge stated that she did not have sufficient authority to sentence Paul and will send the case to Southwark Crown Court for further action. Paul is expected to be sentenced in the coming weeks.