Detectives compiled detailed evidence as part of an investigation to seek justice for a victim of stalking in Poole.
Matthew Ashley Foster-Smith, 46 and of Bournemouth, was found guilty of stalking and breach of a restraining order at Bournemouth Crown Court on Tuesday 21 October 2025.
The incidents occurred between Monday 15 May and Tuesday 31 October 2023 involving a woman aged in her 40s who was known to Foster-Smith.
Over the course of the offending, Foster-Smith was seen outside the victim’s place of work, created further opportunities to encounter her in public and researched her on numerous internet platforms.
At the same court on Wednesday 22 October 2025, Foster-Smith was sentenced to two years and two months in prison.
He was also sentenced for breaching a restraining order that was in place involving a different victim.
Detective Constable Thomas Norman, of Bournemouth CID, said: “The defendant’s behaviour has had an extremely significant impact on the victim’s life. She continues to live in fear and has described these events as destroying her life.
“It is very important to us that victims of stalking get the help and support they need – we don’t want anyone to feel scared, distressed or threatened.
“We take stalking seriously and are committed to ensuring offenders such as Foster-Smith are held accountable for their behaviour.”
