Kyle Weilding, described as an “extreme” stalker, has been jailed for five years after subjecting his victim to a two-year ordeal of abuse and following her 2,000 miles to Cyprus as she attempted to escape. Weilding, 34, of no fixed abode, was convicted at Manchester Crown Court of controlling and coercive behaviour, assault, and non-fatal strangulation. In addition to his prison sentence, he was handed a 10-year restraining order.
Weilding’s abusive behavior began when he discovered his victim was friends with another man on social media. He reacted violently, repeatedly hitting the woman, threatening to stab her, her dog, and to smash the windows of her home in Rusholme, Manchester. He went so far as to apply for the same job as her, solely to keep her under surveillance. He also threatened her family, pushing her to flee abroad.
Despite her attempts to start a new life in Cyprus, Weilding tracked her down and continued his abusive behaviour. He was arrested upon his return to the UK in January.
Detective Constable Ross Sidebottom of Greater Manchester Police highlighted the extreme torment and abuse Weilding inflicted, praising the victim’s courage in coming forward to ensure his conviction. “Weilding is a person who not only caused torment but horrific abuse and injuries to this woman who now suffers daily with the traumatic consequences of his continued controlling actions,” he said. He commended the victim’s bravery and expressed hope that she can now begin her recovery, knowing that Weilding is behind bars and unable to harm her or anyone else.
