Shelley Willoughby: Rosebud police stalker pleads guilty after sending roses, love letters, jewellery to station
A lovestruck Rosebud woman has landed in court after her “infatuation” with a cop grew out of control — and you won’t believe what she gave her.
South East
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A Mornington Peninsula police officer was stalked by a woman who showered her with romantic gifts, a court has heard.
Shelley Willoughby, 56, pleaded guilty to stalking in the Frankston Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday after her “infatuation” with the Rosebud officer spun out of control.
The court heard Willoughby sent one dozen roses to the local station on April 20 last year and wrote love letters up to four times a week.
She handed in a note on April 21, and returned on July 5 telling reception she “had something for someone.”
Willoughby, who appeared “fidgety and nervous”, delivered a sapphire ring, lottery tickets, cash and a small amount of cannabis for the woman.
At the time the mother of one told officers said was embarrassed but her “feelings were strong”.
Willoughby’s lawyer said her client, who has struggled with prescription drug abuse, developed an “infatuation” with the officer after she offered her condolences to Willoughby in the street following the death of her mother.
“Willoughby was in a fragile state … she sent gifts, love letters and notes in hope (the officer) would talk to her and the feelings would be reciprocated.
“She was under a misguided belief that (the officer) was the only one who would be kind to her … she (now) understands it was foolish.”
The court heard Willoughby has been participating in rehabilitative programs and was committed to improving her wellbeing.
“I have been very impressed you are getting your life together,” Magistrate Therese McCarthy told Willoughby.
“The bottom line is that if (the feeling’s) not reciprocated, it has to end.”
Willoughby will return for sentence on Thursday.
