JOHN TAYLOR

WAKEFIELD MAN JAILED FOR SENDING MURDEROUS MESSAGES TO DAUGHTER'S MOTHER

A court heard that John Taylor, aged 41 and described as manipulative, sent messages to his daughter containing disturbing instructions on how her mother should end her life.

Taylor, who had a 26-year relationship with the mother of his three children before their separation, was previously convicted in November 2021 for harassment and criminal damage, leading to a restraining order against him.

Although he was banned from visiting his ex-partner's address and from contacting her directly or indirectly, he sent a message to his daughter on October 19 of the previous year, which was believed to be directed at his ex-partner.

Prosecutor Ayman Khokhar told the court that: "On October 19, the defendant sent a message to his daughter with guidance on how her mother might attempt to kill herself." The message included details of the 'best way' for her to do it, suggesting she would 'fall asleep and never wake up.' The daughter, sensing a possible breach of the restraining order, informed her mother, who subsequently called the police.

The mother also blocked Taylor’s mobile number, describing him as manipulative and unpredictable, especially when under the influence of drugs.

The court was told that the messages she received also became threatening.

Taylor exercised his right to silence during arrest but later admitted to breaching the restraining order and making malicious communications at his trial.

He has convictions dating back to 1996, including battery against someone protected by a restraining order.

Defence attorney Andrew Petterson contended that "no violence took place...

it was just one text message, and I don’t believe it constitutes a serious breach of the restraining order." Recorder Moran sentenced Taylor to 20 months imprisonment.