NEIGHBOUR SHINES TORCHES THROUGH WINDOWS AND BREACHES RESTRAINING ORDER
Today, a woman described as a troublesome neighbor who broke her restraining order shortly after returning from jail is scheduled for release.Jayne Goodman, aged 64, appeared again in court on Monday, just months following her sentencing for stalking her neighbors.
Bradford Crown Court was told that in connection with her October 13, 2022 conviction, Goodman, who resides on Oldham Road in Ripponden, admitted to shining flashlights into her neighbor’s property and throwing wooden panels.
A decade-long restraining order had been issued to prevent her from contacting the victim, but Goodman—who had been held in custody—was released.
Prosecutor Lauren Smith explained that Goodman arrived home on October 16 and, within an hour, resumed her harassment.
She recounted six separate incidents in that hour, where Goodman made offensive gestures and sexual signs toward the victim using her CCTV system.
The victim expressed concern, noting that she and her family are on edge with Goodman’s impending release.
Her daughter is also receiving counselling due to Goodman’s earlier conduct, and the victim has taken time off work because of mental health struggles linked to the harassment.
Police found a baton behind her front door on October 16, with Goodman admitting to the incidents but claiming they were not directed at her neighbor.
CCTV footage captured Goodman with her arm extended outside her door.
The judge acknowledged her plight but commented that the CCTV coverage could infringe on her rights under Article 8.
Goodman’s criminal record includes 14 convictions for 19 offences.
Defense attorney Jo Shepherd stated that her client acted out of frustration, noting her age, recent job loss, and the grief of losing her mother, which affected her during her time in custody, especially after being denied attending her funeral.
Judge Burn sentenced Goodman to 16 weeks’ imprisonment but indicated she would likely be released soon due to her current remand status.
He advised her to disregard her neighbor and consult a solicitor regarding potential modifications to the CCTV setup.
The judge emphasized her obligation to respect the existing restraining order and avoid contact with her neighbors.
