In 2021, Alex Harper, a 24-year-old man from Paignton, was jailed for three years and four months after permanently scarring two young teenagers by carving his initials into their skin.
Alex Harper, of Paignton, Devon, was sentenced at Exeter Crown Court after being convicted at trial of controlling or coercive behaviour relating to a 16-year-old girl, alongside pleading guilty to two counts of wounding involving two teenage victims. The court heard how Harper cultivated an online persona around interests in anime to target vulnerable teenagers before subjecting them to physical abuse, non-consensual branding, and coercive control. The judge noted that the victims suffered lasting physical scarring and profound psychological trauma as a result of his actions.
Judge David Evans described Harper as sly, egotistical, and calculating, rejecting claims that the victims had consented to the physical harm. The court highlighted the severe risks associated with online relationships and Harper’s fixation on control and infliction of pain before handing down the custodial term. In addition to his prison sentence, the court imposed strict legal measures to prohibit any future contact between Harper and his victims.
In addition to his custodial sentence, Harper was handed 10-year restraining orders prohibiting him from contacting either victim.
He remains subject to ongoing public protection monitoring and legal restrictions to prevent further harm and safeguard the public.
For the latest updates and offender details, follow us on the UK Register Database Facebook Page. If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on how to report a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.