Case Overview

In a shocking case of stalking that unfolded in Singapore, Sven Teo Jin Kiat, a 35-year-old former salon owner, has been sentenced to three months in prison for a year-long campaign of harassment against his ex-employee.

Details of the Harassment

Since the incidents began, Teo's actions have left his victim in a state of distress and fear, as he loitered around her home and workplace, engaging in unwanted communication and gift-giving. The harassment lasted from November 2023 to December 2024.

Impact on Victim

The 29-year-old woman, who had previously worked at Teo's salon before moving to another job that required her to travel between various locations, experienced significant mental health challenges due to the ongoing harassment.

Persistence Despite Rejection

Despite her clear rejection of his advances during her employment, where she firmly stated her disinterest in a romantic relationship—due to Teo's marital status—he continued to pursue her relentlessly.

Stalking Behavior

Teo's stalking behavior included lurking for up to an hour outside her residence and actively following her as she commuted between work and home.

Escalation of Harassment

On numerous occasions, the victim noticed a blue car trailing her on buses and MRT trains, raising her concerns about her safety. The harassment escalated when Teo reportedly sent her extravagant gifts, including a designer Christian Dior bag, along with food and notes professing his feelings.

Email Bombardment

In a particularly alarming behavior, Teo bombarded her with 31 emails from multiple accounts, in which he expressed his love, berated her for not responding, and implored her to withdraw police complaints he faced as a result of his actions.

Continued Harassment Despite Warnings

The victim took her plight to the police, filing seven reports against Teo from June 2023 to December 2024. Even after being warned by authorities in January 2024 to cease his conduct, Teo did not relent.

Psychological Impact

The trauma inflicted on the victim prompted her to seek support from colleagues and neighbors, worried about Teo’s possible actions.

Legal Repercussions

The legal repercussions for stalking in Singapore can lead to imprisonment for up to 12 months or hefty fines, but in Teo's case, the court deemed a three-month sentence appropriate, given the psychological impact of his relentless harassment on the victim.

Conclusion

As this case highlights the growing issue of stalking and its effects, it brings attention to the need for heightened awareness and measures to protect individuals from such predatory behaviors.