Stalker sentenced to 40 months for tracking ex-girlfriend

A 54-year-old man named Jason Howe from Seaham, County Durham, has been sentenced to 40 months in prison for stalking his ex-girlfriend. He placed a tracker on her car and continued to harass her with threatening messages after their breakup in 2023. The woman discovered the tracker and reported it to the police. In a surprising turn of events, Howe followed the police car carrying the tracker to the station, where he was arrested. During his arrest, he appeared confused and protested about his actions. Howe had a history of stalking behavior. He ignored a restraining order prohibiting him from contacting his ex-girlfriend. She expressed fear for her life in a victim impact statement, believing he might try to harm her or her family. After initially denying the charges, Howe later pleaded guilty to stalking and controlling behavior. A judge at Teesside Crown Court sentenced him and issued a restraining order to prevent future contact with the victim. Police believe his actions created a genuine fear for her safety. A police officer involved in the case stated that Howe's actions were abusive and cowardly. The officer encouraged anyone experiencing stalking to report it, emphasizing the importance of safety and support.