A Metropolitan Police detective has been convicted of stalking his former partner for eight weeks, a campaign that left her feeling anxious, nervous, and constantly looking over her shoulder. Timothy Fory, 34, a detective constable with the force's directorate of professional standards, was found guilty of stalking without fear, alarm, or distress following a trial last month. The conviction was handed down at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Monday, August 10.
What happened
Fory, who had been in the force for four years, refused to accept the end of a brief relationship and began a persistent campaign of harassment from July to September 2024. The victim ended the relationship because she felt Fory was not respecting her boundaries, the court heard. After the breakup, Fory 'persistently' sent her messages on WhatsApp, and even sent her a link to Ann Summers lingerie.
When the victim blocked him on WhatsApp, Fory turned to Instagram and Facebook to continue his unwanted contact. The court heard that when Fory sent the Ann Summers link, his ex replied: “I’m starting to think you’ve not registered that we’re not seeing each other anymore.”
Details of the stalking
Prosecutor George Crivelli told the court that Fory also followed the woman at a social event, saying “everywhere she went he followed.” After being blocked on social media, Fory found his ex-partner on Instagram and, “out of pure spitefulness and perhaps desperation,” sent a message about him being in a relationship with her.
The victim's impact statement, read to the court, described Fory as “spiteful” and “vindictive.” She said his actions left her “anxious, nervous and on edge,” and that she has struggled with sleeping, lost weight, and now constantly looks over her shoulder.
Sentencing and consequences
Fory was spared jail and instead handed a 12-month community order. He must complete 150 hours of unpaid work and 15 days of a rehabilitation requirement. A five-year restraining order was also imposed, prohibiting any direct or indirect contact with the victim. He was ordered to pay £775 in costs plus a statutory surcharge of £114.
District Judge Caroline Jackson highlighted Fory's position of trust, stating: “You of all people ought to be fully aware and appreciate the impact your actions have on people.” She expressed sadness that Fory still did not appreciate the impact of his conduct, and noted that his “worrying” behaviour only stopped because he was blocked on the platforms.
Background and next steps
The court heard that Fory, who has no previous convictions, was suspended from duty on full pay. His defence lawyer, Miranda Zeffman, said Fory now hopes to work in the construction industry. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Fory faces an accelerated misconduct hearing.
This case underscores the serious consequences of stalking, particularly for those in positions of authority. The Met has stated it will pursue disciplinary action, and the victim has been granted a restraining order for her protection.
