The case study we’re about to look at is based on a real situation. Names and some circumstances have been changed to keep the identities of those involved hidden.
A father stalking his family
When Cora* reached out to the police, she was at her breaking point. Her father had been relentless in his stalking. He was showing up at her home uninvited. Following her on her daily commute, and even violating workplace boundaries. Her employer even had to ban him from the premises due to his abusive behaviour.
Cora blocked his calls, hoping for some peace, but his harassment only escalated. He waited outside her daughter’s school, attempting to make contact despite her repeated pleas for him to stop.
Seeking support, Cora was referred to Paragon, where an Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworker (ISAC) provided her with emotional and practical guidance. The ISAC worked closely with the police to secure a Stalking Protection Order (SPO) to help curb the ongoing harassment. However, he persisted.
The stalking service flagged concerns about her father’s mental health, leading to his temporary arrest under Section 2 of the Mental Health Act for assessment. Despite this intervention, he was deemed to have the capacity to make decisions and was released. Within two hours, he was back outside Cora’s home.
That same evening, Cora reported his presence again, leading to his arrest and remand. With her ISAC’s unwavering support, Cora faced her father in court. He was found guilty of stalking and received a lifetime Restraining Order, alongside a 32-month custody sentence.
Even after his sentencing, the emotional scars of his behaviour remain. Cora expressed how deeply trapped she had felt. Unable to leave her house without fear, dreading the sound of her own doorbell, and feeling unheard by authorities.
Cora emphasises the importance of consistent police and court communication with victims, as well as the frustration of reporting incidents multiple times a day only to feel as though her voice was ignored.
Cora’s story highlights the urgent need for stronger action against stalking. While protective measures do exist, they must be enforced swiftly and effectively to prevent victims from feeling abandoned in their pursuit of justice. Cora’s experience serves as a call to action and a warning to those who think stalking is acceptable.
If you feel you are being stalked, always contact 999.
*Not her real name
