JEALOUS EX-MAN WRECKS BATHROOM DOOR TO SNOOP ON GIRLFRIEND'S PHONE
A man named Steven Myers, aged 36, caused approximately £100 worth of damage by forcibly breaking down his estranged wife's bathroom door.The court was informed that Myers wanted to access her phone, specifically to see if she was using a dating app or was interested in other men, which was a motivating factor behind his actions.
The incident occurred at the victim's home in Newsome on October 12.
The victim was so terrified that she sought refuge in the bathroom and was in distress, fearing that Myers was going to assault her.
Myers pleaded guilty to criminal damage at Kirklees Magistrates' Court.
The court was told that Myers had been in a relationship with the victim for 15 years before separating in July.
His solicitor, Sonia Kidd, stated that Myers had been struggling with the breakup and wished to reconcile, acknowledging that his actions were inappropriate.
District Judge David Scanlon expressed concern, stating, “The aggravating feature for me is he wants to check her phone to see if she's on a dating app or wants to see other men.
He goes round and breaks down a door because he wants to go through the phone and doesn't like what he sees on it.
That is just a recipe for something worse in the future.” Myers was sentenced to a community order with 20 rehabilitation activity days focusing on relationship issues.
He was also ordered to pay £85 court costs, a £90 victim surcharge, and was given a one-year restraining order banning him from contacting his ex or visiting her home.
Judge Scanlon warned Myers to keep his emotions in check and advised him that continued attempts to find out about her personal life would not be beneficial.
The case highlights concerns over emotional control and the potential for escalation in domestic disputes.
