Ban after harassing ex-partner

Smithwasarrestedthree times for his behaviour

A man has been barred from contacting his former partner after subjecting her to a three month campaign of harassment.

David Smith (54), from Knightswood, Glasgow, appeared at Stirling Sheriff Court on Wednesday (May 17) for sentencing. He admitted to engaging in a course of conduct that caused his ex-wife fear or alarm.

The court heard how Smith bombarded her with cards, letters, jewellery, photos and other items.

The incidents happened between March 11 and June 14 last year at a property in Rowan Crescent, Killearn, and another in Stirling Road, Drymen.

He approached the address in Killearn and another in Stirling Road in Drymen and repeatedly phoned the victim and bombarded her with emails.

He also showed up at the address in Drymen to leave items there.

On one occasion he also threatened to commit suicide.

Fiscal depute, Adrian Fraser said: “It’s the persistent nature of the contact that caused the alarm. It was persistent and unwanted.”

Defence agent, Ron MacKenna said: “He should have known that his threat to commit suicide was alarming.

“He has realised that this is not the way to deal with these matters.”

Smith was arrested on three occasions for his behaviour and spent two bank holiday weekends in custody as a result.

Sentencing, Sheriff William Gilchrist said: “I understand that you were in a relationship for 16 years but you couldn’t let it come to an end in an appropriate manner.”

Smith was served with a nonharassment order and told not to have contact with his ex-wife for three years.