He had previously pleaded guilty to one charge of stalking with intent to cause serious alarm or distress, one charge of sexual assault and one count of trespass with intent to commit a sexual offence.

The judge heard how O’Driscoll had led a sustained and obsessive campaign against his victim where he would constantly ring her, knock on her front door and shout out to her.

He also sent her gifts, told the victim he loved her and became jealous when she had visitors to her house.

His behavior escalated on the evening of 28 May 2018 when he entered the victim’s home without permission.

After being seen inside, he attempted to stop her screaming by placing his hands across her mouth. He was wearing latex gloves during the incident and sexually assaulted her.

The victim was able to get away from the offender and told him to leave the property.

She reported the incident to Kent Police and O’Driscoll was arrested the following morning.