Vile threats to ex-partner
MAN THREATENED ‘A RAOUL MOAT’
A PLASTERER threatened to “do a Raoul Moat” days before he was due to appear in court for harassing his former partner.
Ryan Crinson had already told his ex he would blow up her car, “make her life hell” and drive his car through her friends’ homes during a series of unwanted calls in April and May.
The 32-year-old menace was arrested for harassment and told he had to appear in court on July 20.
But three days before his appearance, Crinson contacted his victim, who lived in Sunderland and had by then had moved house because of him, 30 times in one day.
During the calls on July 17, Crinson warned he would “do a Raoul Moat” – a reference to the notorious killer who went on a gun rampage after his relationship broke down.
Prosecutor Helen Towers told Newcastle Crown Court: “The complainant received 30 unwanted calls. She answered four and recorded them.
“The defendant was the caller and she described him as under the influence, his speech was slurred.
“During the calls he made offers of money for her not to go to court.
“He stated he knew where she was living and gave a location.
“He stated he would blow her car up.
“He also stated he would do a Raoul Moat.”
Crinson, of Upper Town, Wolsingham, County Durham, admitted harassment and threatening behaviour.
Judge Tim Gittins sentenced Crinson to six months behind bars with a five-year restraining order to keep him away from his victim’s home in Sunderland.
The judge said the calls made by Crinson were “vile, threatening and abusive” and added: “Albeit they were words, they were frightening words.
“She was understandably terrified.”
The court heard Crinson is likely to be released immediately due to the time he has spent on remand.
Tony Cornberg, defending, said Crinson is keen to get back to his plastering business and accepts he was using alcohol to excess at the time.
Mr Cornberg added: “There has been no trouble in the last four months.
“He accepts the relationship is over.”