In a real-life scenario mirroring the disturbing Netflix drama Baby Reindeer, a personal assistant has revealed her harrowing ordeal at the hands of an obsessive social media consultant who subjected her to a relentless campaign of harassment.
The Unravelling of a Professional Relationship
What began as a standard professional arrangement quickly descended into nightmare territory when Ben Innes, a 36-year-old social media consultant from Edinburgh, became dangerously fixated on his personal assistant. The court heard how Innes bombarded the woman with approximately 1,500 messages across multiple platforms including Instagram, LinkedIn, and emails over an intense three-month period.
"The sheer volume of communication was overwhelming," the victim stated in her impact statement. "It felt like there was no escape from his constant digital presence in my life."
A Pattern of Predatory Behaviour
Edinburgh Sheriff Court was told that Innes's behaviour escalated alarmingly, with the consultant making disturbing visits to the woman's workplace and home address. His actions demonstrated a calculated pattern of harassment that left his victim feeling constantly watched and vulnerable.
Prosecutors detailed how Innes repeatedly ignored clear boundaries and requests to cease contact, instead intensifying his campaign despite knowing the distress it caused.
Justice Served With Prison Sentence
Sheriff Richard MacFarlane delivered a decisive response to the stalking campaign, sentencing Innes to 15 months imprisonment. The judge emphasised the severe impact such persistent harassment has on victims' mental health and sense of security.
In addition to the prison term, the court imposed a non-harassment order lasting three years, providing the victim with legal protection from further contact from her tormentor.
Echoes of Baby Reindeer Drama
The case bears striking parallels to the recent Netflix series Baby Reindeer, which dramatised comedian Richard Gadd's real-life experience with a stalker. Like the fictional portrayal, this real-world case demonstrates how professional relationships can be weaponised by individuals with obsessive tendencies.
"These cases are far more common than people realise," noted a spokesperson for the National Stalking Helpline. "Digital platforms have unfortunately made it easier for perpetrators to maintain constant access to their victims."
A Warning to Others
The sentencing sends a clear message about the seriousness with which the justice system treats stalking offences. As social media and digital communication continue to blur professional and personal boundaries, this case serves as a cautionary tale about maintaining appropriate professional conduct.
The victim expressed relief at the outcome but emphasised the lasting psychological impact of the experience. "No one should have to endure this kind of persistent fear and intrusion," she stated.
