Insults after text bid to woo back ex

Messages caused woman fear

A man sent texts and voiecmails to try and win back a woman’s affection.

But 60- year- old Francis Boyle also hurled nasty insults at his ex, Ayr Sheriff Court heard.

Depute fiscal Laurin Campbell said: “Police have confirmed 20 messages and voicemails. The odd text message contained swear words.”

Sheriff John Montgomery asked if any of the messages were threatening in nature.

Ms Campbell said some messages contained insults and one said: “Watch who sees you going to work.”

Defence lawyer Ian Gillies said this message was more of a warning that she should not walk alone to work.

The lawyer added: “He’s very remorseful.

“They’ve been apart for some time and there’s been no contact since this happened.”

Sheriff Montgomery expressed surprise when Ms Campbell, on behalf of the Crown, asked for a nonharassment order against Boyle.

He refused to impose the order, exclaiming: “The complainer has not cooperated with the police and she wants a non- harassment order?”

The court heard that Boyle, of Woodlands Crescent, Ayr, is unemployed and receives £ 300 per month universal credit.

He pleaded guilty to a charge of causing fear or alarm to his ex- partner in messages sent between February 24 and April 1 this year.

Sheriff Montgomery ordered Boyle to complete 90 hours of unpaid work within three months.

He told him: “If you don’t do the work you know what the alternative will be.”

He’s very remorseful. There’s been no contact since this happened.