A MAN has been ordered to carry out unpaid work and complete a rehabilitation scheme after pleading guilty to stalking and harassment charges.

Matthew David Cox, 38, of Ashlands Court, Northallerton, was charged with stalking involving fear of violence between June 19 and July 5 at locations around Northallerton.

Northallerton Magistrates’ Court heard today (Monday, November 16) that Cox caused his victim – who cannot be named for legal reasons as she is under the age of 18 – to fear that violence would be used against her on at least two occasions.

Cox also repeatedly followed and stared at his victim, including at her place of work, and on occasions shouted to her.

A probation report found that Cox suffered from learning difficulties and appeared not to understand the upset his behaviour had caused.

Magistrates ordered Cox to undergo a 12 month community order with supervision, including 15 rehabilitation days with the Probation Service and 250 hours of unpaid work.

An indefinite restraining order was also placed on Cox in regard to the victim. He was charged £150 in court charges and a £60 victim surcharge.