Email made ex ‘fear for her safety’

A man who sent a series of emails to a former partner during a campaign of harassment has been sentenced.

Steven Farris, of College Road, Maidstone, had previously been given a warning by police but was charged with one count of harassment.

The 32-year-old sent his ex a message saying “If I can’t have you, no one can” and was handed a 12-month community order during a hearing at Maidstone Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

Susanna Mitchell, prosecuting, said: “On August 1 the defendant sent four emails to his ex-partner. After the first email the victim told Mr Farris not to contact her again.

“Despite this the defendant continued to send three more emails. On September 3 at 7.30pm she received another email along the lines of wanting to continue their relationship.

“The last of these messages she sees caused her to fear for her safety.

“The last email read ‘ No change, you really hate me that much. I’m not a bad person. I ain’t going away. If I can’t have you no one can. I’m better than him’.”

Farris told magistrates he regretted sending the messages and had no memory of sending the final email.

He was sentenced to a 10-day rehabilitation activity requirement and 100 hours of unpaid work.

Farris was also ordered to pay £85 court costs and an £85 victim surcharge. He was also handed a two-year restraining order.