Man fined over harassment

An autistic man who bombarded two women with text messages and loitered outside their homes has been fined. Matthew Roper, 23, pleaded guilty to two counts of harassment without violence at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court last Wednesday. The court heard Roper, of Frinsted Gardens in Stanhope, began his month-long campaign after his relationship broke down. The two victims - friends of Roper’s ex-girlfriend – were also subjected to persistent phone calls between June and July last year. Speaking of one victim, prosecutor Neil Sweeney told magistrates: “(The victim) continues receiving these calls and text messages. “The defendant was seen walking around where she lived, looking up at her flat. “He sent numerous messages by text and social and phone calls to the victim, asking to speak to the ex-girlfriend.” Roper spoke only to enter his plea and give his name, age and address. In mitigation, solicitor Lewis Holloway said Roper acknowledged his behaviour was wrong but thought he was in “an on-off relationship”. “He accepts sending the messages, making the calls and going to the addresses,” Mr Holloway said. “My client said it was quite clear he was in an on-off relationship.” He was fined £170.