Ryan Smith, 31, from Eversley, Widnes, has been sentenced to 20 months in prison at Liverpool Crown Court for stalking involving serious alarm or distress, threatening to damage property, and breaching a restraining order. The court heard that Smith forced his victim to flee her own home after he attended her address and refused to leave in May, prompting police involvement.
Investigation and Charges
Merseyside Police launched an investigation following the incident. Officers discovered that Smith had contacted the victim on social media, using derogatory names and making threats to damage her home and car. He also subjected her to verbal abuse and threats over the phone. Smith was arrested and charged on May 29, just weeks after the offences occurred.
Police Statement
Detective Constable Charlie Harris from the Public Protection Unit (PPU) Domestic Abuse team praised the victim's cooperation. “We are pleased to see Smith swiftly face the consequences of his despicable crimes, and we recognise the harm that this has caused to the victim,” Harris said. “I want to thank her for engaging with our investigation, ensuring justice was done within weeks of the offences, and ensuring that further measures can be put in place to support her in the future. Vital to this successful prosecution was evidence provided by the victim. Being targeted in such a way is distressing, so to have the presence of mind to screenshot messages helps us as we build the case.”
Support for Victims
Merseyside Police urged victims of domestic abuse or stalking to seek help. Partner agencies such as PALADIN, the National Stalking Advocacy Service (020 3866 4107, info@paladinservice.co.uk), and MDVS (Merseyside Domestic Victims of Stalking) (07802722703, info@mdvs.org) offer free support and advice. Police can refer victims to MDVS with consent, or victims can refer themselves. In emergencies, the public should call 999 or use textphone service 18000 for hearing or speech impairments.
