Dwaine Boakye : “Stalker’s ‘Depraved’ Snapchat Messages to Schoolgirl”

A disturbing case unfolded in Canterbury Crown Court as a stalker targeted Chloe Bednar, the teenage sister of a boy who was tragically murdered in 2014. Dwaine Boakye embarked on a sickening month-long campaign against the young girl, sending her graphic and distressing messages and images related to her brother’s death.

Boakye, a freelance hairdresser, targeted Chloe through various social media personas, including Snapchat accounts impersonating her brother and his murderer, Lewis Daynes. The messages contained detailed knowledge of the murder case, causing Chloe significant distress and fear.

Despite not having any prior connection to Chloe or the murder case, Boakye conducted extensive research into the family, aiming to maximize fear and distress through his relentless and disturbing messages.

The investigation into the stalking incident was prolonged due to legal issues with US-based Snapchat, delaying Boakye’s identification as the stalker. However, his arrest in 2019 revealed the extent of his malicious communications, causing immense psychological harm to Chloe.

Boakye’s messages included graphic references to the murder, threats against the Bednar family, and taunts about desecrating the young boy’s grave. The psychological impact on Chloe was profound, leading to changes in her lifestyle and the need for counseling and therapy.

Following his arrest, Boakye pleaded guilty to stalking and malicious communication charges. The court described his conduct as intended to maximize fear and distress, causing serious harm to a vulnerable young girl.

Boakye’s sentencing to three-and-a-half years in prison highlighted the severity of his actions. The judge condemned his behavior as cruel and traumatising, emphasizing the impact on a grieving young girl.

Chloe’s family, who have been vocal advocates for online safety following Breck’s tragic death, expressed their hope that Boakye’s sentence would serve as a deterrent to online offenders. They endured years of distress and uncertainty, waiting for justice to be served.

Boakye’s actions, fueled by anonymity and malice, underscored the dangers of online harassment and the need for robust legal measures to protect individuals from such heinous acts.

As the Bednar family continues their advocacy for online safety, they hope that Boakye’s case will raise awareness about the devastating impact of cyberstalking and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.

With the sentencing of Dwaine Boakye, the court sent a clear message that online harassment and stalking will not be tolerated, and those who engage in such despicable behavior will face severe consequences.

As the Bednar family seeks closure and healing, they stand united in their mission to combat online abuse and protect vulnerable individuals from the horrors of cyberstalking.