Dyfed-Powys Police recorded 625 stalking offences in a year, as officers warn of the crime’s “devastating impact” on victims.

Figures released by Dyfed-Powys Police to mark the start of Stalking Awareness Week show the force logged hundreds of incidents over the past 12 months, with its control room receiving on average between one and two calls reporting stalking behaviour every day.

The force is now running a social media campaign to highlight the signs of stalking, its impact, and where victims can seek help and support.

T/Detective Chief Inspector Katie Cuthbertson said: “One of our force priorities is to ensure a compassionate response to victims of stalking, as we understand and recognise the devastating impact being stalked can have on someone’s life.

“It is incredibly important that anyone who comes forward to report that they are being stalked is supported through an investigation, and that we consider all measures to safeguard them while our enquiries are carried out.

“Anyone can become a victim of stalking, and while a significant proportion of victims are stalked by former partners, perpetrators can also be non-intimate acquaintances, or even strangers with no connection at all to their victims.

“Stalking is still a very misunderstood crime type, and we are using this week to educate our communities about just how serious it can be.”

Since last year’s awareness week, the force has recorded 625 instances of stalking and secured 15 interim or full Stalking Protection Orders through the courts.

Police said some reports relate to repeated behaviour involving the same victim and perpetrator, as stalking is defined as fixated, obsessive, unwanted and repeated conduct.

Officers are urging victims to report every incident to help build a full picture and identify any escalation.

T/DCI Cuthbertson added: “Stalking behaviours can appear innocuous, from leaving flowers and gifts, to sending frequent messages, which makes it difficult for victims to explain to family and friends why they are living in fear.

“The true risk to the victim is often masked by the appearance of low-level offending behaviours, however it is considered a high risk crime type.”

Further information and advice is available on the Dyfed-Powys Police website.