Paul Keevil, a 56-year-old UK chess master, has been sentenced to 28 months in prison for stalking, harassing, and blackmailing a woman in her 20s. Keevil pleaded guilty to stalking, sexual assault, and blackmail and has been placed on the Sex Offender Register for 10 years.

The harassment began after the victim refused to resume a brief sexual relationship in 2021. Court reports show that Keevil launched a sustained campaign of threats and defamation, aiming to pressure the woman into rekindling their relationship and demanding repayment of previous gifts.

Prosecutor Tom Farr said, “From 2019, they remained in contact, and the defendant occasionally gave her money at her request. After she refused further contact in 2021, Keevil launched a sustained campaign of harassment, stalking, and blackmail.”

The victim told the court that she felt suicidal and unsafe, adding, “He genuinely believes I am his girlfriend no matter how many times I say ‘No’. I fear for my safety and for my baby’s safety.” The relentless harassment also led to the end of her relationship, leaving her in constant fear.

Background of the Case

Keevil first met the university student in 2018 through Seeking Arrangements. After their brief relationship, he continued sending her money. When the woman entered a new relationship and became pregnant, Keevil tried to blackmail her by sending false messages to her family, university, and employer, and even contacted the hospital maternity ward pretending to be the baby’s father.

At Bolton Crown Court, Judge Mr Recorder Jeremy Lasker described Keevil’s behavior as a “sustained course of conduct” aimed at pressuring the victim and noted that it had driven her to consider suicide.

Keevil will serve 28 months in prison and remain on the Sex Offender Register for 10 years. The case highlights the serious consequences of stalking, harassment, and blackmail, and the lasting emotional impact such crimes can have on victims.