Stalker followed ex-partner and disconnected broadband

A stalker who followed his ex-partner and disconnected the broadband to her home has been jailed.

Bartlomiej Smentek, 42, let himself into the victim’s home in Cambridge on 3 August and refused to leave.

This was a breach of a non-molestation order imposed on Smentek the previous week.

The victim called police and Smentek eventually left, taking a door key.

She installed CCTV at the property and captured footage of him on multiple occasions during August.

On 22 August, Smentek wedged a broom under the handle on the front door of the property, preventing the woman from opening it, and disconnected broadband cables so the internet would not work.

He went to the property at about 12pm saying he could fix the issue with the internet, before following the victim as she drove home. 

On 25 August police received an anonymous call reporting a disturbance at the victim’s home. When officers attended it appeared to be a hoax and the phone call was traced to Smentek.

Two days later the victim spotted Smentek cycle past her car and when she got home, she realised her broadband had been disconnected again.

On 31 August, Smentek returned to the property and shouted at the victim. Police were called and he was arrested nearby.

Smentek, of Byron Square, Trumpington, initially denied stalking but admitted the offence on the first day of a trial at Peterborough Crown Court in January.

He also admitted nine breaches of a non-molestation order.

On Tuesday (11 March) at Cambridge Crown Court he was jailed for four years and three months.

DC Joanna MacKenzie said: “This was a harrowing ordeal for the victim as Smentek persistently went to her home and caused her distress.

“I hope the conclusion of the court process, and Smentek’s subsequent jail sentence, will provide some comfort for her.

“We’re working hard to tackle domestic abuse in all its forms, including stalking and harassment.”

For information and advice concerning stalking visit Cambridgeshire Constabulary’s website.

 

Photo: Bartlomiej Smentek