Stalker Jailed After Targeting Woman In West Sussex

A stalker who repeatedly targeted a woman in West Sussex has been jailed for four years and six months.

Mark Coop, 38, entered the victim’s home late at night on one occasion and later tried to gain access again while wearing a balaclava.

He also sent repeated messages and made unwanted calls, sometimes demonstrating he knew the victim’s location.

The behaviour, which took place between August and October last year, left the woman frightened in her own home and worried about being followed.

Coop, who has no fixed address, was arrested and charged with stalking involving fear of serious violence, alarm or distress. He admitted the offence at Lewes Crown Court on 12 March.

Alongside the prison sentence, the court imposed a 10-year restraining order banning him from contacting the victim or approaching people connected to her.

The order also prevents him from entering parts of Worthing including Durrington, West Tarring, Salvington, Goring and Offington.

Sussex Police say they encourage anyone affected by stalking or domestic abuse to report it online or by calling 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.