Newton hearing in non-molestation order case

A MAN has admitted breaching a non-molestation order designed to protect a woman from him.

In the dock at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Monday, February 22 was James Hewitt-Jones.

The 38-year-old, whose address was given as a flat in London Road, Newbury, admitted breaching the order.

Specifically, the charge states that he did so by sending a series of messages, notes and flowers to Jade Whitworth, by asking a mutual friend to deliver flowers to her and by attending her home address on various dates in February.

Although Mr Hewitt-Jones, also known as James Hewitt, admitted the offence, he did so on a basis that was not acceptable to the prosecution.

In other words, he disputed some of the facts outlined by the prosecution, said Steve Molloy, defending.

Magistrates ruled that the two versions of events were so incompatible that, depending on whose version they believed, it would make a significant difference to any pass.

They therefore adjourned the case for a Newton hearing – a mini trial to establish the facts – to be held.

Mr Hewitt-James was meanwhile released on bail on condition that he sleeps at a specified address in Newbury each night and does not enter Gaywood Drive, Newbury.

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FIVE people were stopped by police for breaching coronavirus restrictions in Newbury last week.

Thames Valley Police said that five people from two households were socialising in a car park on London Road on Wednesday, February 24.

Officers said that the group “were out socialising without reasonable excuse”.

Police said that four of the group were reported and will be issued with a fixed penalty notice (FPN).

“Please stay home and help reduce the transmission of

Covid-19,” officers added.

Officers have also called on a ‘drunk’ woman who ran from them to come and collect her belongings – and pick up her £200 fine for breaching Covid-19 lockdown rules.

The incident took place at Henwick during the night of Friday, February 26.

The force posted on Facebook: “A message for the drunk female who ran from officers at Henwick tonight leaving behind her handbag and front door keys.

“If you would like to come to

Newbury Police Station to collect your handbag along with your £200 FPN for breaching Covid rules that would be great.”

People aged 18 or over can be fined £200 for the first offence, lowered to £100 if paid within 14 days for breaching restrictions.

A fine of £400 is issued for the second offence, then doubles for each further offence up to a maximum of £6,400

Current coronavirus lockdown rules limit the situations a person can leave their home to a few exceptional circumstances.