Woman given restraining orders to protect victims of her physical and emotional abuse

A woman who subjected her victims to an appalling campaign of physical and emotional abuse has been given restraining orders and a suspended prison sentence.

Samantha Jane Crosby, 42, of Kelfield, Selby, assaulted a man, and shared a private sexual video of him without his consent.

She then pursued two women with connections to the man, physically assaulting one of them and harassing the other by sending her abusive messages.

Following a thorough investigation by North Yorkshire Police, Crosby was charged. In court, she pleaded guilty to assaulting the man and disclosing a private sexual video of him without his consent, as well as assaulting one woman and harassing another.

At York Magistrates Court on Wednesday 24 November 2021, Crosby’s behaviour was described as “appalling offending”, and she was sentenced to a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for 24 months.

The court also put in place three restraining orders, to protect all three victims, and requirements to abstain from alcohol, not to enter a named pub, carry out 60 hours of unpaid work, and undergo rehabilitation activity.

Support for victims

Just talking to someone about what you are going through will make you realise that there are people on your side, who can help you understand what choices are available to you, and guide you to specialist organisations that can support you in making you safe:

IDAS – Independent Domestic Abuse Service: victims of domestic abuse can contact IDAS via their helpline number. Call 0300 110 110 or visit www.idas.org.uk

Supporting Victims in North Yorkshire: the Supporting Victims service will provide support for anyone affected by crime. They are able to provide a wide range of support tailored to your individual needs, including immediate practical support and referral onto emotional and therapeutic support services such as counselling. Call 01609 643100 or visit www.supportingvictims.org

If you have been assaulted and are fearful for your safety, always call 999 and get to a safe place. If you are not in immediate danger, you can contact North Yorkshire Police directly using the non-emergency number 101. Specially-trained officers are available to support you.