Kinmel Bay man who stalked a woman left her feeling ‘sick’

John Gardener, 51, of Lyndon Drive, was handed a 12-month community order at Caernarfon Crown Court today (December 4).

He had previously pleaded guilty to a charge of stalking involving serious alarm or distress.

Prosecutor Catherine Elvin said Gardener’s offending behaviour took place in early 2024.

One incident, in February 2024, saw the woman, who cannot be identified, become “very agitated” after coming across Gardener.

He then attended a bar she was at the following weekend, where he approached her and swore at her.

In the early hours of February 18, 2024, Gardener then threatened to share an intimate video he had obtained of the woman.

Gardener was then arrested, and made some admissions to police, but said he had “no intention” of sharing the video.

The woman said Gardener’s behaviour heightened her anxiety, and caused her to have CCTV installed at her home.

She said she felt she could not go out in public due to him “approaching her aggressively”, which “put her on edge” and made her “feel sick”.

Representing Gardener, who had no previous convictions, Matthew Dunford said this was “very much out of character” for him.

Mr Dunford said Gardener has “never been before the courts before,” is in “good employment,” and plays an “important role” in the lives of his two children.

Sentencing, Judge Nicola Jones told Gardener he had caused “distress” to the woman.

Per the terms of his community order, Gardener must complete 20 days’ rehabilitation activity.

A two-year restraining order was made for the woman’s protection, and a deprivation order was made in respect of Gardener’s mobile phone.

He will also pay £360 in costs, and a £187 surcharge.