RICHARD PENNOCK

MAN WHO SENT EX-WIFE 'UNPLEASANT AND UPSETTING' MESSAGES JAILED

Richard Pennock, 46, of St David's Park, Ewloe, was jailed for nine months after admitting to breaching a restraining order by sending abusive and distressing messages to his ex-wife, Samantha Pickard.

The Crown Court at Caernarfon heard that Pennock had been convicted of stalking her and was subject to a four-year restraining order issued in November 2021, which banned him from making contact.

Despite this, he sent a series of offensive emails and messages, including Facebook posts where he stated, “I want you next to me,” and used a derogatory term towards her.

Police interventions followed, and Pennock accepted that he had violated the order.

Prosecutor Jade Tufail stated the messages caused emotional upset.

Defence lawyer Simon Killeen pointed out that the complainant had shown kindness and understanding towards Pennock, but acknowledged the need for imprisonment to enforce the law.

The judge, Mr.

Recorder Wyn Lloyd Jones, noted the messages and phone calls were likely “unpleasant and upsetting,” and that his ex-wife had been “distressed, harassed, and anxious.” It was also mentioned that Pennock had lost his employment and home temporarily.

The court was told that Pennock, who holds qualifications in forklift driving and food hygiene, should instead concentrate on finding work and being a caring father, respecting his ex-wife’s rights to peace and a new relationship free of harassment.