Norfolk man fitted tracking device to postal worker’s vehicle

Keith Deacon, 71, used the device to check where she was going and would occasionally turn up at locations where she was. 

Norwich Crown Court heard that he developed a "fixation" with the post office worker during the coronavirus pandemic. 

Royal Mail delivery vans (Image: Royal Mail)

Matthew Sorel-Cameron, prosecuting, said Deacon used the tracking device to check where she was going.

On occasions Deacon turned up at locations where the victim was.

The court was told that he also turned up at the victim's mother's address.

Deacon also texted a friend about the worker stating that he knew where she was. 

Anthony Deacon leaving Norwich Crown Court (Image: Peter Walsh, Newsquest)

A victim impact statement said the worker was "distressed" to find out what had happened and had to change her round as a result.

Deacon, of Henry Blogg Road, Cromer, appeared in court to be sentenced having admitted a charge of stalking involving serious alarm or distress between January 2020 and December 2021.

Norwich Crown Court (Image: Peter Walsh, Newsquest)

Recorder Douglas Edwards said Deacon developed a "fixation" with the public sector worker.

He said it caused her "distress" and was something "she shouldn't be expected to have to endure".

Deacon was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment suspended for 18 months and given 30 days Rehabilitation Activity Requirement (RAR).

He was also made the subject of a restraining order prohibiting him from contacting the victim directly or indirectly for the next seven years.

Juliet Donovan, mitigatng, said that Deacon was "alone", "somewhat isolated" and described the defendant as a "lonely man who found a connection" with the victim.

She said he was of previous good character and had not threatened her in any way and had become "obsessive" in his actions.

Deacon's barrister said the offences committed by the defendant were done undercover which she, the victim, eventually found out about.