Local stalker sentenced

Dear Resident

A “dangerous” man who stalked and exposed himself to female therapists across the country has been jailed.

Chavez Johnson, aged 29, was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment at St Albans Crown Court on Friday (29 August), with an additional four years to be served on licence, after previously pleading guilty to stalking, two counts of exposure and causing a person to engage in sexual activity.

The court heard how, between May and November 2024, Johnson used several aliases to contact lone and isolated females across the country, including therapists and psychotherapists, under the pretence that he was seeking help.

Instead, he subjected them to repeated unwanted sexual behaviours and harassment, including exposing himself and calling them during the early hours, causing additional distress and fear.

Following an investigation by the Dacorum Local Crime Unit, Johnson, of The Mead in Watford, was arrested in December 2024.

Further victims were subsequently identified, leading to charges being authorised by the Crown Prosecution Service.

Having initially denied the offences Johnson was remanded in prison until his trial in June. After all the evidence was presented in court, he pleaded guilty.

During the sentencing, the judge said that he considered Johnson to be a dangerous offender, due to the offences occurring over a seven-month period and patterns of escalation, among other factors.

He commented that Johnson was a high risk of serious harm to others and his predatory behaviour towards women made him a significant risk to them.

As a result, Johnson will have to serve at least two thirds of his sentence before he is eligible to apply for parole.

A lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention Order, with stringent conditions, was also granted by the court, as well as restraining orders, preventing him from contacting the victims.

Detective Constable Jake Smith, who led the investigation, said: “Johnson’s behaviour is extremely disturbing. He preyed upon lone and isolated female professionals who simply wanted to help him. Instead, he took advantage of being alone with the victims, subjecting them to deeply concerning sexual behaviour, leaving them frightened and distressed.

“Professionals working in this field should feel safe when supporting clients and should not be subjected to such abuse. I am glad that the courts recognise the seriousness of Johnson’s offending, and the risk he poses to others.

“We urge any professionals who find themselves in situations like this to please report matters to the police, as this behaviour will not be tolerated, and we will do everything we can to bring offenders to justice.”