Swansea Man Sentenced to 30 Months for Stalking Ex-Partner

A court has sentenced **Phillip Ashton**, 42, to **30 months** in prison for stalking his ex-partner, in a case that highlights the serious implications of harassment and threats. Despite being subject to a restraining order, Ashton repeatedly contacted the victim and made alarming threats.

Ashton, from **Swansea**, was convicted of stalking his ex-partner in **2022**, which led to the order that prohibited him from approaching or contacting her. Nevertheless, on **October 13, 2023**, the victim received a call from a withheld number. Recognizing Ashton’s voice, she ended the call but was subsequently inundated with **28 more calls** from him over the following days.

The situation escalated as Ashton not only called but also sent threatening voice messages and appeared outside her home. Prosecutor **Abdul Hussain** presented evidence of Ashton’s disturbing behavior, including messages where he stated, “I won’t be long, I’ll go up there and, swear on my mother’s life, I’ll go ballistic. I’m not going anywhere until I see Bear (the victim’s dog) or you. Open the door.”

Further messages contained explicit threats. On **October 17**, he warned, “Answer the f****** door or the door is coming f****** off. Answer the f****** phone because if I come up, watch where it f****** gets you.” He even threatened to “snap” her jaw and damage her property, indicating a clear intent to intimidate.

Ashton was arrested and claimed the allegations were fabricated by the victim. He ultimately pleaded guilty to charges of stalking, harassment, and threatening to damage property. His criminal history includes **17 previous convictions**, with a focus on stalking-related offenses.

The victim expressed her distress, stating, “All voicemails, voice calls, and texts were unwanted and made me terrified.” She described her fear that Ashton might steal her dog or even harm her, illustrating the psychological toll his actions had taken.

In his defense, lawyer **Dan Griffiths** argued that Ashton had struggled to accept the end of the relationship and had acted out of “frustration and anger.” Griffiths noted that Ashton now recognizes the relationship is over and is attempting to move forward.

During sentencing, **Judge Paul Hobson** emphasized the severity of Ashton’s actions, stating, “The victim shouldn’t have to live her life like that and you should be thoroughly ashamed you put her in that position. Your threatening and bullying behavior was completely unjustified.”

Ashton’s case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of obsessive behavior and the importance of adhering to legal protections designed to keep individuals safe from harassment.