Notts stalker sentenced under new law
A 41-year-old man who bombarded his victim with unwanted messages 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, April 27. He was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge.
Kellam was given the order on April 8, to last for two years, after he 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 April 23.
The Stalking Protection Act came into effect on January 20, this year, 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.
“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 9476490 (for women) or 0115 9605556 (for men).”