Man sentenced after campaign of stalking and harassment

Max Midgley, 38, of Hustwaite Road, Coxwold appeared at York Magistrates' Court today (Friday 24 July 2026), where he was sentenced after pleading guilty of stalking and harassment causing fear of violence. He was sentenced to 40 months in prison, and an indefinite restraining order was granted.

The court heard that the victim had been in a relationship with Midgley for approximately two and a half years. During and after the relationship, he displayed a pattern of controlling, abusive and unpredictable behaviour which caused the victim significant fear and distress.

Evidence presented to the court detailed a number of serious incidents of domestic abuse. Midgley was reported to have strangled the victim while making threats to kill her, attempted to push her down the stairs, forced entry into a bathroom where she had sought refuge, and pushed her against tiles causing her head to strike the wall. On other occasions, he spat at the victim and forcefully grabbed her hand, causing injuries including a suspected broken finger and bruising. In a separate assault, he threw a freshly made cup of hot tea into her face, requiring immediate action to prevent scalding.

Following the breakdown of the relationship, Midgley's behaviour continued to escalate. When the victim returned to collect her belongings and leave the address, she later encountered Midgley driving towards her vehicle on a country road. Rather than remaining on his side of the carriageway, Midgley drove directly towards the victim around a bend, forcing her to brake heavily and swerve to avoid a collision.

The court heard that Midgley's actions formed part of a wider course of conduct amounting to stalking and harassment and left the victim fearing for her safety.

Police Staff Investigator Anne Yates from North Yorkshire Police said: "This was a prolonged campaign of abusive, controlling and intimidating behaviour which left the victim fearing for her safety. Nobody should have to experience this kind of conduct.

"Midgley's actions had a devastating impact on the victim and demonstrate how domestic abuse can continue long after a relationship has ended. His behaviour was persistent, frightening and completely unacceptable.

"I would like to commend the victim for the courage and resilience she has shown in reporting these offences and supporting the investigation throughout the court process.

"North Yorkshire Police will not tolerate domestic abuse, stalking or harassment in any form. We are committed to safeguarding victims, pursuing offenders and bringing them before the courts.

"If you are experiencing abuse, stalking, controlling behaviour or harassment, please know that you are not alone and support is available. We urge anyone going through a similar situation to come forward and report it. We will listen, we will investigate and we will do everything we can to protect you."

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, stalking or harassment is encouraged to report it to North Yorkshire Police via 101, or 999 in an emergency. Support is also available through specialist victim services and domestic abuse support organisations.