11-year feud erupts as ‘bully’ posts topless photo of rival
A FEUD between two women which began in their school playground 11 years ago finally ended in court – over a topless photo.
Former school bully Chanelle Leadbeater uploaded the raunchy snap of her rival to Facebook in a bid to embarrass her.
The other woman, who cannot be named, was “horrified and humiliated” after the sexy personal image became public.
She told police it was intended solely for her partner but 144 people “liked” it on the social media site. And when she demanded its removal Leadbeater challenged her to a fight and vandalised her car.
The feud between the women, both 24 and from Middlesbrough, had started as a playground spat when they were 13, Teesside Magistrates court was told.
Leadbeater, who now works as a carer, was expelled from school for fighting.
Joanne Hesse, prosecuting, said: “There is a long history of bad feeling between the two.
“The complainant had blocked the defendant and her family on Facebook because of ongoing problems.”
On April 3 the victim was told by a friend that Leadbeater had posted a photo of her showing her breasts.
The court heard that when the woman sent messages asking for the picture to be taken down, Leadbeater raced to her house and banged on the windows telling her to come out and fight.
She was then seen attacking the woman’s car, breaking the windscreen, a mirror and the wipers.
Neil Douglas, defending, told the court that after posting the photo Leadbeater “came to her senses” and removed it. He said it had been “in circulation among people she mixed with”.
And he added: “She knows she has to understand she is not in the playground any more and fights can’t be settled physically.”
However, District Judge Helen Cousins said: “She doesn’t look ashamed, I have to say.”
Leadbeater pleaded guilty to disclosing a private sexual photograph with intent to cause distress and causing criminal damage.
The judge told her the offences were very serious, adding: “I don’t think I could be criticised for sending you to prison.”
But instead Leadbeater, who had no previous convictions, was given a 12-month community order and 120 hours of unpaid work.
She was also told to pay compensation and £85 costs.
And a restraining order was made banning her from contacting the victim or referring to her on social media for three years.
The judge warned her that any breaches would result in jail. £300