Stalker jailed after terrifying campaign against woman in Worthing

A man has been jailed after repeatedly stalking and intimidating a woman known to him in Worthing, leaving her fearful in her own home.

Mark Coop, 38, entered the victim’s property late at night on one occasion and later attempted to gain access again while wearing a balaclava. The court heard he also sent repeated unwanted messages and phone calls and appeared to know the victim’s location. His behaviour left the woman afraid of being followed and fearful of living in her own home.

Lewes Crown Court heard the incidents took place between August and October last year. Coop admitted stalking involving fear of serious violence, alarm or distress and was jailed for four years and six months. A ten-year restraining order was also imposed, banning him from contacting the victim or entering an exclusion zone covering parts of West Worthing including Durrington, West Tarring, Salvington, Goring and Offington.

Image Credit - Sussex Police