'Intrusive' stalker given suspended prison sentence

Police said Mark Bowler's actions caused his victims to "live in fear"

A man has been given a suspended prison sentence for stalking and harassment.

Mark Bowler, of Englishcombe Lane in Bath, pleaded guilty to sending numerous emails and social media messages to his victims in Chippenham, Wiltshire, which eventually became threatening.

The 61-year-old also stalked a woman after finding out where she worked.

As well as the 20-week prison sentence, which was suspended for two years, Bowler was given a three-year restraining order and ordered to pay £554 in costs at Salisbury Magistrates Court on Monday.

His crimes date back to January, police said.

'Disregard for people'

Wiltshire Police praised the "courage" of Bowler's victims for coming forward with their reports.

"Bowler has a flagrant disregard for people and their property and the extreme and variety of lengths he went to discover the victim’s whereabouts, were planned and included impersonating others," a spokesperson said.

"Bowler’s actions were intrusive, unwanted and caused the victims to live in fear.”