A man who messaged his ex-partner, which was in breach of a non-molestation order, has been put on probation for a year.
Court heard that the 33-year-old made contact after he had taken alcohol which led him to become upset over the breakdown of the relationship and lack of contact with his children.
Hyucein Lyotin, 33, of Keelmount Mews, Portadown pleaded guilty to breaching a non-molestation order, improper use of public electronic communications and harassment at Armagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
Court heard that on May 12, the injured party contacted police reporting that the previous evening the defendant, her ex-partner, had sent her two text messages and rang her twice.
She stated she did not pick up the calls as she recognised the number but showed officers the contents of the messages.
One read: “Look where you have got us, no one can have you, I love you”.
The other stated: “I’ve already paid for this and you will have to pay too.”
The injured party had been granted a non-molestation order on April 27 and made a complaint as she felt these messages breached this.
Lyotin was not located until October 21 and when arrested he made no reply after caution.
When interviewed, the defendant initially denied making contact stating that the injured party had engaged with him via FaceBook messenger.
He later admitted to sending the text messages but denied phoning the injured party.
It was heard that Lyotin and the injured party had been together for eight years and had two children.
They had come to Northern Ireland from Bulgaria for a better future.
Defence counsel stated: “On the day in question, Mr Lyotin was drinking with friends. He was upset at the breakdown of his relationship and lack of access to his children.”
He added: “My client accepts that this was wrong and regrets his actions”.
Court heard that the defendant worked in agriculture in the Republic but had spent three weeks in custody in relation to this matter.
District Judge Paul Copeland stated: “This court takes a serious view of the harassment and intimidation of women.
“You clearly lost the run of yourself on this particular day but you have since ceased this behaviour and made an effort to put this behind you.”
Lyotin was sentenced to a 12-month probation order and handed a 12-month restraining order.
