London man guilty of stalking made fruitless Isle of Wight court trip

John James Keenan, of Lambeth Walk, Lambeth, London, appeared before Isle of Wight magistrates last Tuesday (November 5).

The 45-year-old, who pleaded not guilty to stalking a woman without fear, alarm or distress, between February 13 and 19, was found guilty by magistrates, in his absence, after a trial on August 28.

Read more: Isle of Wight ban for London man who denies stalking

Lauren McConnell, prosecuting, said Keenan met the woman on the Island in February this year and began a relationship with her.

Keenan stayed with her several days, but the woman said his behaviour was inappropriate when he insisted on accompanying her to job interviews and making comments.

She subsequently ended their relationship, but Keenan continued to contact her — attending her home three days running, calling and texting her and leaving flowers with her landlady.

Keenan also managed to track her down to a local pub, where she reiterated to him it was over between them — but "he would not take no for an answer, telling her to put the kettle on so they could talk".

The woman said his attentions were making her feel "very uncomfortable" and impacting on her mental health, Mrs McConnell added.

Read more: Isle of Wight Freshwater Five cocaine smuggler stalked ex-partner

In her impact statement, the woman said she felt vulnerable, had sought counselling and therapy, and had found the experience of coming to court for Keenan's trial very difficult.

Keenan, who believed his behaviour was not stalking, appeared with seven previous convictions for 11 offences.

They include an ABH and three breaches of restraining orders.

Unrepresented in court, Keenan said he was sorry for any malice or harm caused to his victim and no longer visits the Island.

Magistrates ordered a report on Keenan and bailed him to be sentenced at Westminster Magistrates' Court on January 21 next year.