‘Jealous’ man punched ex’s new partner

A “JEALOUS” man has been sentenced for harassing his exgirlfriend, punching her new partner in the face and telling her employer she was a cheat.

Andrew Hopkins, 39, from York Place in Barry, was committed to prison for a year, suspended for 18 months, after admitting harassment and inflicting grievous bodily harm.

Sentencing at Cardiff Crown Court, Judge Michael Fitton QC also ordered Hopkins to complete 150 hours of unpaid work and 25 days of a rehabilitation activity.

Prosecutors said the defendant was in a relationship with Victoria A’Hearne for 13 years before they broke up last summer.

Crown prosecutor Tony Trigg previously told the court: “She was concerned he would turn nasty and her fears were justified. He was unable to accept the break-up.”

The court heard he kicked Ms A’Hearne’s front door and sent her messages threatening her new boyfriend, before attacking him as he drove home from a date at the cinema. He also sent a message to his ex saying: “He’ll have a nice day at work tomorrow with a smashed in face.”

Prosecutors said Ms A’Hearne went to the cinema with her partner Matthew Curtis on September 1, but Hopkins found out about their plans and threatened to hurt him.

Hopkins followed Mr Curtis home before punching him repeatedly, causing a fractured wrist and bruising to the eye, cheek and jaw. He also posted a photograph of Ms A’Hearne on her employer’s Facebook page, saying: “She has destroyed my life. She’s a liar and a cheat.”

The defendant was arrested on September 5 and admitted the offences, telling officers he was “jealous” and “angry”.

In a victim impact statement, Ms A’Hearne said: “I just want him to leave me alone.”

Judge Fitton imposed a 10-year restraining order. Hopkins must pay £500 in compensation, plus a £140 victim surcharge.