Adam Rickitt, best known for playing Nick Tilsley on Coronation Street, was forced to take drastic action against a stalker after being hounded for a year, a court has heard. The 47-year-old actor put Ron Kleihues, 52, in a headlock after the obsessive fan turned up at the pub Rickitt owns with his wife, Katy, in Cheshire, and began harassing staff.
Kleihues had been barred from the Dexter and Jones pub, but continued to attend and send vile messages, including fantasies about raping a child. Rickitt, who also starred in Hollyoaks, said he contacted police after Kleihues confessed to watching child porn and struggling with urges. Despite being spoken to by police, Kleihues continued his campaign, fixating on a barmaid and a male staff member.
In a victim impact statement read at Crewe Magistrates’ Court, Rickitt expressed his fear that a child would be harmed if he did not act. He said he felt guilty and was scared for his wife's safety, forbidding her from walking home alone. The court heard that Kleihues sent letters and threatening Facebook messages, causing significant distress.
Kleihues admitted to harassment and was sentenced to a 12-month community order with rehabilitation activity requirements. He was also fined £180 and ordered to pay £472 in costs. An indefinite restraining order was issued banning him from contacting Rickitt and his wife. A further hearing in June will determine if a stalking protection order is needed.
