Stalking offences rise by 455 per cent in just four years

Last year, up until December 12, there were 366 stalking offences reported to the police, compared to 66 in 2013, a Freedom of Information request to West Mercia Police revealed today.

The figures have shown a steady rise year-on-year, helped by high profile stalking cases nationally that have heightened the issue. In 2016 there were 209 stalking offences reported in the West Mercia area, 223 in 2015 and 81 in 2014.

In the last four years, the youngest victim was nine years old and the oldest victim was 80 years old.

Of the 366 offences reported last year, 86 cases resulted in convictions.

Meanwhile, three cases resulted in no conviction, seven defendants were found not guilty and the results of six cases were not known or yet to be finalised.

In 2016, 11 stalkers were convicted, 22 in 2015, 23 in 2014 and six in 2013.

Last year, in 138 of the cases, evidential difficulties prevented further action or the victim no longer supported police action. In 52 of the cases evidential difficulties prevented further action, and there were two cautions.

Superintendent Paul Moxley welcomed the rise in reports, saying it reflected the fact people were willing to come forward to complain.

He added police have been working hard to improve the way they deal with stalking offences.

Committed

He said: “West Mercia Police take reports of stalking extremely seriously and we are committed to thoroughly investigating any information reported to us.

“I welcome the rise in reports as Warwickshire and West Mercia Police have been working hard to improve the way we deal with stalking offences.”

Superintendent Moxley commended the victims who came forward to report the offences.

“The increase indicates that more and more victims of this corrosive crime have the confidence to come forward and I commend those who have reported these distressing offences,” he added.

“We would always encourage and urge victims of stalking to report offences to us so we can carefully and appropriately respond to their concerns.

“Anyone who suspects they are being stalked or has been a victim of stalking should always contact police and not suffer in silence. We have specially trained officers and police staff who are able to help and ensure offenders are brought to justice.

“Alternatively, victims of this type of offence may wish to contact the National Stalking Hotline on 0808 802 0300 who will be also be able to offer advice and assistance.”