Former Duke Reports Alleged Stalking Incident as Court Hears Details of Sandringham Encounter

A court has heard claims that former Duke Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor came face-to-face with an alleged stalker during an encounter near his Sandringham home in Norfolk.

The hearing has brought renewed attention to the growing concerns surrounding the safety and security of public figures, who can face persistent unwanted attention, harassment and threats.

According to a statement read in court, Mountbatten-Windsor said he was walking his dogs on 6 May when he noticed a vehicle he believed may have been connected to members of the press.

The court heard that he later saw a man wearing a balaclava-style face covering, who allegedly turned towards him before running after his vehicle.

The alleged incident has led Suffolk Police to apply for a Stalking Protection Order against Alex Jenkinson, 39, from Stowmarket, Suffolk.

Jenkinson denies the allegations and is also contesting the proposed protection order.

Questions Over Public Safety

This case highlights the difficult balance between public access, freedom of movement and the protection of individuals who attract significant public attention.

While public figures often live under intense scrutiny, repeated unwanted contact or behaviour that creates fear raises serious questions about where the line should be drawn.

Stalking is not simply unwanted attention. It can involve patterns of behaviour that leave victims feeling threatened, anxious and unsafe.

The introduction of Stalking Protection Orders was designed to give authorities a tool to intervene before situations escalate further.

Legal Process Must Take Its Course

The allegations against Jenkinson remain unproven, and he is entitled to the presumption of innocence while the legal process continues.

The court also heard that the hearing took place without Jenkinson present after he was prevented from entering the building with his dog, which his lawyer described as a support animal.

His legal team stated that he has ADHD and is homeless, although no supporting documents were presented to the court.

Jenkinson remains on conditional bail and is prohibited from approaching or contacting Mountbatten-Windsor, either directly or indirectly. He is also banned from entering several royal residences and areas including Sandringham, Buckingham Palace, Balmoral, Windsor, Highgrove and Norfolk.

A Wider Debate About Protection and Privacy

Beyond this individual case, the incident raises broader questions about how society deals with stalking, harassment and the safety of those in public life.

Whether someone is a member of the Royal Family, a politician, a celebrity or an ordinary citizen, everyone has the right to feel safe from intimidation and unwanted pursuit.

However, the courts must continue to ensure that accusations are properly tested, evidence is examined and justice is delivered fairly.

The trial is expected to begin on 21 December.