A Skipton man who was already in jail has been given a 2-year prison sentence after admitting breaching a 10-year ban on contacting his victim.
48 year old John Lowndes was due to be released from prison on 30th June for the original offences of making threats to kill and engaging in coercive and controlling behaviour. He was arrested at the prison gates and remanded in custody until an appearance this week at Hull Crown Court.
He pleaded guilty to breaching a 10-year restraining order that was put in place to prevent him from contacting his victim from the original crime.
Within weeks of being put behind bars, Lowndes ignored the order and attempted to continue the control of his victim from his prison cell. Using other inmates' names he sent her multiple letters, attempting to intimidate her to appeal to the courts to request that the restraining order be lifted. To further pressurise and scare her into action, he also encouraged other prisoners to contact her.
Throughout the investigation and court process the victim has received continued supported from North Yorkshire Police officers, the force Safeguarding Team, IDAS (Independent Domestic Abuse Services) and other partners.
Commenting on the sentencing, investigating officer Detective Constable Amy Beveridge said: “Through breaching the restraining order Lowndes showed not only a blatant disregard for the courts, but also the arrogant belief that he could continue to control his victim from his prison cell. I’d like to take this opportunity to commend the victim for her bravery, telling the police about the abuse she continued to suffer and her strength go through the court process again, to put this man where he belongs – behind bars.
Police Constable Pete MacMillan, who was also involved in the investigation added: “We hope this sentence sends a clear message to others who may be living in fear of their partner or a family member; we will do everything in our power to ensure victims of domestic abuse and coercive control are kept safe and that those who repeatedly use these sickening tactics to insight fear and exert control over those they are meant to love, face justice time and time again.”
If you are living in fear or abuse, you can contact North Yorkshire Police on 101. If you are at immediate threat of harm you should always dial 999.
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