Stalker sent love letters to his victim from jail

William Todd was banned from having any contact the woman as a result of a restraining order imposed last February.

Newcastle Crown Court heard the 62-year-old has repeatedly breached the ban and was held in custody for throwing eggs and soup at the woman’s windows and walls during two separate attacks in just one day.

Todd received a suspended sentence in July last year after admitting a total of five breaches.

But the court heard it was while he as being held on remand he sent a series of letters to his victim.

The court heard the victim involved the police after he made comment about “additional security measures” at her home.

Prosecutor Elizabeth Muir said the woman had been given chains and other safety features to her home by the police.

The last letter, which was hand delivered, arrived within days of Todd being given the suspended sentence on July 31.

The court heard the persistent pestering has caused “significant psychological harm” to the woman.

Miss Muir added: “She describes herself being petrified of him and feels trapped. She wants him to leave her alone.”

Todd, formerly of Elmwood Street, Fence Houses, admitted two charges of breaching a restraining order.

The court heard Todd was in custody between August and January and there has been no further unwanted contact.

Mr Recorder William Lowe QC sentenced him to six months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, with community rehabilitation requirements.

The judge told him: “I hope you appreciate this sort of behaviour has got to stop, it will lead you back to prison, which is a waste of your life.”

Todd was reminded a restraining order remains in place and he must not contact the victim again.