Man Found Guilty of Stalking TV Presenter Myleene Klass

A man has been convicted of stalking TV and radio presenter Myleene Klass, sending her items including a gun, handcuffs, and a police uniform, causing her "sheer terror." Peter Windsor, 61, of Birmingham, was found guilty of two counts of stalking involving serious alarm or distress to Ms. Klass and fellow Classic FM presenter Katie Breathwick between 2020 and 2024.

The verdict, reached at Birmingham Crown Court on Tuesday, concludes a trial that revealed a disturbing pattern of escalating harassment. Windsor, who had denied the charges, now faces potential imprisonment or a hospital order following a psychiatric assessment.

Unwanted Gifts and Escalating Fear

The court heard that Windsor sent numerous unwanted gifts to both women at the Classic FM studios in London over a four-year period. These items included a will-writing kit and, most alarmingly, an air pistol addressed to Ms. Klass. The accumulation of these items left Klass in a state of "sheer terror," as she testified during the trial.

"It was very clear, very quickly, that it was a highly volatile selection of items," Ms. Klass told the court. "It was a huge shock, especially the extent to which it had escalated. It's a huge violation. It's sheer terror, really."

Impact on Katie Breathwick

Katie Breathwick also described the fear and anxiety caused by Windsor's actions. She told the court that she received approximately 100 notes and gifts, including a DIY will-writing kit. "I was terrified - I was terrified because what was his intention?" she said. She also expressed fear about a pair of binoculars that Windsor had sent her, believing he was watching her.

According to Dr. Lorraine Sheridan, a leading expert in stalking and harassment, the impact on victims extends beyond immediate fear. "Stalking is a particularly insidious crime because it is often characterized by a sustained and unwanted intrusion into the victim's life," Dr. Sheridan explains. "The psychological consequences can be severe, leading to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress."

Windsor's Background and Previous Actions

The court also heard that Windsor had previously been arrested, but not prosecuted, after sending a letter to then-Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon in 2020. The letter was reportedly "signed in blood" and contained disturbing content. Windsor, who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia, described the letter as "just a joke."

The Broader Context of Stalking and Harassment

This case highlights the serious and pervasive issue of stalking, particularly within the entertainment industry. Celebrities and public figures are often vulnerable to obsessive behavior and harassment. The rise of social media has further complicated the issue, providing stalkers with new avenues for contact and surveillance.

Historically, stalking laws have evolved to recognize the psychological and emotional harm inflicted on victims. However, challenges remain in effectively prosecuting stalkers and providing adequate support to those affected. The Klass case underscores the importance of reporting stalking incidents and the potential for serious consequences if left unchecked.

Police Statement and Victim Support

Following the verdict, Acting Det Sgt Marius Dinescu of West Midlands Police emphasized the severity of stalking, stating it has "devastating effects on victims." He commended Ms. Klass and Ms. Breathwick for reporting the incidents and for their bravery in describing their experiences in court.

"There are not enough words to commend Myleene and Katie for reporting these incidents which escalated and persisted over a significant period of time," he said.

Ms. Klass expressed her gratitude to the judge, police, and Mrs. Breathwick, stating, "After a horrific year, my family and I finally have peace."

Sentencing Awaited

Windsor will be sentenced next month. The judge informed him that sentencing options include imprisonment or a hospital order, depending on psychiatric evaluations.