A man was reported to have continually harassed his neighbor over a period of seven months, repeatedly labeling him as a “paedo,” according to court records.
Marek Powalski was accused of recording his neighbor as the latter was installing CCTV cameras, making offensive gestures towards the camera, and instigating disputes over parking. The 52-year-old, who has since relocated, had been in ongoing conflicts with his neighbors for several years, as stated in a hearing at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre.
Residing on Joyce Avenue in Bradeley, Stoke-on-Trent, Powalski admitted guilt to the charge of harassment without violence spanning from September 23, 2024, to April 26, 2025.
He received a fine of £120 and was directed to pay £85 in costs along with a £48 surcharge, as reported by StokeonTrentLive.
Prosecutor Suzanne Swindail detailed, “The defendant persistently accused him of being a ‘paedo.’ The victim mentioned enduring continuous confrontations with the defendant for around two years. Due to the ongoing issues, the victim had CCTV systems installed. On September 23, 2024, Powalski was observed filming the victim while setting up the cameras.”
“On October 8, the CCTV footage captured Powalski making obscene gestures and swearing at the camera. On December 31, a verbal altercation occurred when Powalski approached the driveway regarding parking issues. Lastly, on April 26, he once again insulted his neighbor as a ‘paedo.'”
In a statement from the victim, it was expressed that he felt intimidated to access the garage, fearing potential further clashes with Powalski. Additionally, the victim’s wife mentioned that the harassment had severely impacted her mental well-being to the extent that she preferred not to venture outside.
Simon Leech, representing Powalski, disclosed that the defendant had relocated and no longer resided on the same street as the victim.
Leech stated, “There is a lengthy history of disputes. The defendant acknowledges the prolonged tensions. It all began with the defendant’s attempts at home improvement. The stress escalated to a point where the defendant decided to sell his property.”
“They opted to move out due to the unbearable pressure. The sale of the house incurred a substantial financial loss.”
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