A self-proclaimed misogynist with a history of violence against women has been banned from using incel websites and from loitering near female toilets and changing rooms.
Victor Valentine, 29, was made subject to a sexual harm prevention order (SHPO) after a court concluded he posed a high risk of sexual harm. The orders are typically imposed on convicted sex offenders, but can also be applied to people who haven't been convicted of a sexual offence when police or courts deem them an immediate or persistent risk.
Preventative measure to keep women safe
Gloucestershire Police said the SHPO was a necessary 'preventative measure to keep women and girls safe'. The force said that although Valentine has not been convicted of any sexual offences, the court heard how he is a self-proclaimed misogynist and member of an online incel group, with a history of unprovoked violence towards women in a public setting. He has also persistently breached the terms of numerous civil orders.
The order bans Valentine from using any device with internet access unless he tells police first and agrees to let officers inspect his browsing and location history on request. He is also banned from a specific incel website and any other online forum spouting incel ideology, as well as from loitering near female toilets and changing rooms.
Order lasts until 2013
The order lasts until August 2013. Valentine faces arrest and up to five years in prison if he breaches any of the conditions.
Detective Sergeant Paul Howell said: 'Valentine is well-known for his misogynistic hostility and violence towards women, and we are pleased to have secured this SHPO against him.'
'Even though Valentine has not been convicted of any sexual offences, this is a preventative measure to keep women and girls in the county safe from harm.'
'This order will reduce Valentine's ability to further explore his ideology and gives police the opportunity to monitor his behaviour in the community to help reduce his risk of further offending.'
