A FATHER-of-nine has been sentenced, after he admitted harassing his former partner on the day of his scheduled trial.
Michael Bentley, 46, persistently made attempts to contact his former partner, following the break-up of their 22-year relationship.
Bentley originally denied the offence, but changed his plea to guilty on the morning of his trial, in June.
Bentley, of Neuadd Newydd, Pontdolgoch, Caersws, sent unwanted communications to his ex-partner over a 10-day period in March, in Newtown.
Prosecutor Helen Tench told Welshpool Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, June 30, the victim in the case described Bentley as being “obsessed” with her.
“The victim is the defendant’s former partner. They were in a relationship for 22 years and have nine children together,” said Mrs Tench.
“She made a call in March to police, after she received two emails. The defendant had made numerous attempts to contact her following the breakdown of the relationship.
“She described the relationship as like walking on eggshells around him. She received a suicide letter from the defendant previously, which had led her to taking him back.
“There were multiple emails over a period of weeks. She then received a text from the defendant, saying he knew she was spending time with a new man.
“On one occasion she was on the phone to police as she saw his car parked nearby. When police arrived the defendant’s vehicle was located 100 yards away, but he was not there. He was located later driving in Newtown.”
Mrs Tench read from a victim impact statement, in which Bentley’s former partner said: “I’m extremely frightened about how far he’s going to go, he is obsessed. I feel it will cost me my life.”
The case was listed for trial but Bentley pleaded guilty to a less serious offence, having originally been charged with stalking.
Gurleen Kaur, representing Bentley, said her client did not intend to contact his ex-partner anymore.
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“There was an unfortunate breakdown in their relationship after 22 years,” said Ms Kaur.
“The defendant takes responsibility for his actions and conduct. It should be taken into context that the relationship was volatile towards the end. It led to an emotional build-up.”
She added: “He works as an MOT tester and is concerned that a particular type of sentence would see him lose his MOT licence.
“He pays over £500 a month to his ex and, without a job, he would not be able to keep doing this.
“He does not have any intention to communicate with her anymore; he has drawn a line under that and wants to move on, so he does not oppose a restraining order.
“Proceedings are in place to continue contact with the children.”
Ms Kaur read out references provided for Bentley, with one person who has known him for 30 years describing him as “kind, reliable and a hard-working, devoted father”.
His employer, Bradleys Garage, in Newtown, described Bentley as an “intrinsic part of the team”, whose work ethic is “impeccable”.
Magistrates handed Bentley a 12-month community order, which includes 15 rehabilitation activity days.
He was ordered to pay a £153 fine, £114 surcharge and £200 costs, but the court ordered no compensation.
An 18-months restraining order was also imposed; this states Bentley must not contact his victim, except via a solicitor or third party, in relation to child contact with children, nor enter any premises she lives or works; or enter any information on social media or the internet referring to her.
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