A jail term has been handed down on a man who repeatedly racially abused and threatened a woman in Folkestone.
Marcus James, 64, and the victim both lived in the Bouverie Road area of the town and had previously had a disagreement about him playing loud music at his flat.
On 15 August 2020, James shouted threats from near her flat and repeatedly made racially-aggravated remarks.
Threats
A week later, James was again heard near the victim’s flat shouting that he had paid someone to kill her. The day after that, he made further threats.
After the incidents were reported to Kent Police, James was arrested on 25 August that year and bailed with conditions not to contact the victim, pending further enquiries.
However, within hours of being released, the victim again heard him near her flat, shouting threats, abuse and claiming he could see her.
Court
Police attended and arrested James for a second time and he was later charged with racially aggravated harassment causing fear of violence.
He was convicted of that offence following a trial and sentenced to two years, four months at Canterbury Crown Court on 28 January 2022.
The sentencing judge also imposed a three-year restraining order preventing James from contacting the victim.
Protecting victims
PC Dan Mills, of Folkestone’s Vulnerability Investigation Team, said: ‘Kent Police is committed to investigating all instances of hate crime and bringing those responsible before the courts.
‘James’ appalling behaviour had a long-lasting impact on this victim. He carried on bombarding her with abuse even after he was arrested and I am pleased the court has recognised the seriousness of his actions.
‘I urge anyone who feels they are being targeted because of their race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or because they are transgender, to contact police as soon as possible. We will investigate and take the steps necessary to keep you safe.’