Adam Atherton, a 24-year-old who called himself 'Slave Adam,' has been sentenced for stalking a financial dominatrix after sending her thousands of pounds accompanied by violent threats, including fantasies of sexual assault and hitting her with a hammer. He was given an 18-month suspended prison sentence and a five-year restraining order.
Threats and Payments
Atherton first contacted the victim, a 'findom' who financially dominates clients, in November 2024 with a cash donation under the username 'Slave Adam.' Two days later, he sent an anonymous message: 'Watch out for me in Liverpool. I might rape you.' The victim cancelled their planned meeting and blocked him. Despite this, Atherton continued sending messages, including threats of sexual violence, and asked for money back in October 2024, blaming his autism for his behaviour.
Stalking Incident
In March 2025, the victim was on a night out in Liverpool city centre playing the 'Wetherspoon's game,' posting her table number for followers to send drinks. Atherton arrived and sat behind her, sending messages like 'Sorry goddess, the service is slow in here. Do you notice me?' and 'You are so beautiful. I have to see you for myself. I'm sick but I'm trying to become better.' The victim felt 'terrified and trapped.' Her friend alerted staff, and Atherton was asked to leave but loitered outside, leaving the victim feeling trapped inside.
Impact on Victim
The victim told the court: 'I have lived with constant stress, anxiety and fear knowing he was threatening me. It left me feeling vulnerable and unable to relax.' She stopped socialising in Liverpool city centre and said: 'His behaviour restricted my freedom... as his messages became more threatening I became terrified of what he would do if I encountered him again in person.' She added: 'I have been trapped in a continuous nightmare. No human being should be subjected to the vile misogynistic actions of Atherton.'
Arrest and Admissions
Atherton was arrested on May 21, 2026, and made 'full and frank admissions,' telling police the threats were 'the most extreme thing he could say to get a reaction.' He admitted stalking causing fear of violence. The court heard he had sent around £4,000 in total to various online contacts but had ceased with psychiatric help. He was diagnosed with ADHD, emotional dysregulation, and was on the autism spectrum pathway, receiving therapy and support from Mersey Care.
Sentencing
Recorder Carwyn Cox sentenced Atherton to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years, with 20 rehabilitation days and 200 hours of unpaid work. A restraining order prohibits contact with the victim for five years. The judge told Atherton: 'You are an individual who at this stage in your life had trouble with forming healthy relationships with females... I hope you never come back here again.'
