A stalker who wired a tracking device into his ex-girlfriend's car and placed a listening device in her home has been jailed for four years.

Michael Hampton caused his victim to "live in fear" and used the listening device to spy on her more than 600 times, police said.

The 32-year-old, of Harlow, Essex, continued to contact the woman by phone and by turning up at her home following the breakdown of their relationship.

Hampton has now been jailed for four years after admitting one count of harassment with stalking involving serious alarm and assault by beating.

The incidents occurred between July 2023 and January of this year in Hitchin, Herts., police said.

Spying and Harassment

During this time, Hampton planted a listening device in his ex's home, which he used to spy on her more than 600 times. He continued to contact her via phone and would turn up at her home, as well as wiring a tracker into the fuse box of her car to monitor her daily movements. This level of intrusion is a clear sign of the lengths to which Hampton went to control and intimidate his ex-partner.

Physical Assault

On July 17 last year, Hampton followed the woman in his car before grabbing hold of her and pushing her around when she tried to escape. This incident demonstrates the escalation of Hampton's harassment and the physical threat he posed to his victim.

Justice Served

As well as being jailed for four years, he was handed an indefinite restraining order against his ex, banning him from making any contact with his ex. He was sentenced at Peterborough Crown Court.

Psychological Impact

Det Insp Samantha Alcock, of Hertfordshire Police, said Hampton's behaviour had a psychological impact on his victim.

She said: “I am pleased that Michael Hampton has received a substantial prison sentence for his crimes. His obsessive behaviour caused the victim to live in fear, and this has understandably had a detrimental and psychological impact on her. I hope she will be able to start rebuilding her life now that Hampton is behind bars. I’d also like to extend a thanks to Detective Constable Alexander Akers, who led the investigation, for his tireless work in bringing Hampton to justice. Safeguarding a victim is always our top priority. If you are experiencing stalking or domestic abuse, please report it. Stalking can affect every part of your life and can lead to other offences. We are here to help and have a dedicated Domestic Abuse and Investigation and Safeguarding Unit.”

A Cry for Help

The case of Michael Hampton highlights the serious nature of stalking and the need for victims to seek support. It's important to remember that you are not alone, and help is available. If you are experiencing stalking or domestic abuse, please reach out to a trusted friend or family member, or contact the authorities. It's never too late to seek help and break free from the cycle of abuse.

Resources for Victims of Stalking and Domestic Abuse

If you are experiencing stalking or domestic abuse, here are some resources that can help:

• Hertfordshire Police: https://www.herts.police.uk/
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: https://www.thehotline.org/
• National Stalking Helpline: https://www.stalkinghelpline.org/

The sentence imposed on Hampton serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of stalking and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. It also serves as a message of hope for victims, demonstrating that justice can be achieved and that it's possible to move on from such traumatic experiences.