A stalker who wired a tracking device into his ex-girlfriend's car and a placed listening device in her home has been jailed for four years.

Michael Hampton caused his victim to "live in fear" and used the listening device to spy on her more than 600 times, police said.

The 32-year-old, of Harlow, Essex, continued to contact the woman by phone and by turning up at her home following the breakdown of their relationship.

Hampton has now been jailed for four years after admitting one count of harassment with stalking involving serious alarm and assault by beating.

The incidents occurred between July 2023 and January of this year in Hitchin, Herts., police said.

During this time, Hampton planted a listening device in his ex's home, which he used to spy on her more than 600 times.

He continued to contact her via phone and would turn up at her home, as well as wiring a tracker into the fuse box of her car to monitor her daily movements.

On July 17 last year, Hampton followed the woman in his car before grabbing hold of her and pushing her around when she tried to escape.

As well as being jailed for four years, he was handed an indefinite restraining order against his ex, banning him from making any contact with his ex.

He was sentenced at Peterborough Crown Court.

Det Insp Samantha Alcock, of Hertfordshire Police, said Hampton's behaviour had a psychological impact on his victim.

She said: “I am pleased that Michael Hampton has received a substantial prison sentence for his crimes.

“His obsessive behaviour caused the victim to live in fear, and this has understandably had a detrimental and psychological impact on her.

"I hope she will be able to start rebuilding her life now that Hampton is behind bars.

“I’d also like to extend a thanks to Detective Constable Alexander Akers, who led the investigation, for his tireless work in bringing Hampton to justice.

“Safeguarding a victim is always our top priority.

"If you are experiencing stalking or domestic abuse, please report it.  "Stalking can affect every part of your life and can lead to other offences.

"We are here to help and have a dedicated Domestic Abuse and Investigation and Safeguarding Unit.”