Poison pen assault leaves victim in fear

The woman, a 30-year-old seamstress, has had tissues covered with faeces posted through her letterbox, while eight households in Foxwood, Acomb, have been sent obscene letters containing nail clippings and pubic hair by the same person, all naming her and including her parents’ address.

Other letters have been taped to a bus shelter, road sign and on one occasion stuck facing inwards on a living room window.

Police say they have no idea who the perpetrator is or why he has become fixated on his victim, but have launched a leaflet campaign in the area to catch him before it turns more sinister.

The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous because of fears about her safety, told the Yorkshire Post: “This is no way to live.”

“I go straight home from work and shut the curtains as soon as it gets dark.

“I remember when I got the first package, it was sent to my parents house but addressed to me. When I opened it, I was terrified.

“I didn’t want to report it but then the police knocked on my door and said they had obtained a couple more letters with my name on them.”

PC Vicky Fickling, of the York Safer Neighbourhood Team, said all the letters were signed by somebody calling themselves John.

She added: “I would like to speak to anyone who may have received a similar letter.”

Anybody with information or who recognises the handwriting is urged to contact police on 0845 60 60 247.