American jailed for 10-year stalking campaign

A 31-year-old American national has been jailed for a decade-long stalking campaign that culminated in him flying to the UK to harass his victim. Robert Beckman, from Ann Arbor, Michigan, sent repeated messages and mail to the victim, causing significant distress and leading the victim to relocate. He was arrested at Gatwick Airport on August 25 after arriving on a flight from Boston.

Beckman was charged with stalking causing serious alarm or distress on the day of his arrest. He entered a guilty plea at Lewes Crown Court on September 23. His sentencing took place on October 29, where he received a prison sentence of one year and nine months. A 10-year restraining order was also imposed, prohibiting him from entering the UK.

Previous Caution Issued

This was not the first instance of Beckman's behaviour towards the victim. In October 2021, he had received a police caution for harassing the same individual. Detective Sergeant James Gwynne of Sussex Police stated that Beckman's conduct over the 10 years had a profound impact on the victim's daily life, affecting his work and family and forcing him to change his routines and location.

Detective Sergeant Gwynne added that Beckman demonstrated a complete disregard for the victim. He thanked the victim for coming forward and supporting the investigation. "Nobody should have to suffer stalking behaviours and our message to all victims of stalking is to report it to us as soon as possible," he said. Sussex Police stated they take all reports of stalking seriously and will investigate to ensure victim safety.