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A man who subjected his partner of nearly 20 years to a campaign of abuse, including hiding a secret listening device in her flat and GPS trackers in her car, has been jailed.
Jimmy Lovelock, 43, sought to control almost every aspect of the victim’s life, isolating her from friends and family with demands about her phone and social media use.
Kent Police arrested Lovelock in May 2024 after an investigation uncovered allegations of assault and threats spanning several years. It was revealed that in 2023, Lovelock mysteriously started appearing in places the victim visited, leading her to discover tracking devices in her car and a listening device in her home by February 2024.
Further investigation showed Lovelock had smashed the victim’s car windscreen and, in a separate incident, slashed her car tyres.
At Maidstone Crown Court, Lovelock pleaded guilty to controlling and coercive behaviour (dating from May 2022 to May 2024) and causing actual bodily harm. He also admitted possessing a taser and cannabis.
On Friday, June 13, 2025, Lovelock, of no fixed address, was sentenced to 20 months’ imprisonment. He was also issued a 10-year restraining order.
Detective Constable Hannah Meehan said:
‘Lovelock made repeated and relentless threats to hurt and kill the victim if she ever left him and started a relationship with someone else. This included threats to burn down her flat with her inside. He has used fear, violence and intimidation to exert control over almost every aspect of her life. I’m pleased the courts have passed a custodial sentence as this will afford the victim the time and space needed to help break away from Lovelock’s control and allow her to move on with her life.
‘Tackling domestic abuse remains an absolute priority for Kent Police and I would encourage anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation or relationship to report it to someone and get help. There is a range of support and information available, just phone us or ask a trusted friend or relative to do it. Nobody should feel they don’t have the option to walk away.’