Anton Mann, a 34-year-old man, was sentenced to 12 weeks in jail after being discovered hiding behind shrubs in the garden of his ex-partner in Sherburn-in-Elmet, North Yorkshire, on January 28. Mann pleaded guilty to breaching two court orders designed to keep him away from the woman, which included a restraining order issued by Leeds Magistrates’ Court and a non-molestation order from the Family Court.
The court heard that Mann had a history of harassment, marked by continual phone calls and messages that violated previous court orders. Notably, he had received a community order just 13 days prior to the incident for his ongoing harassment. This community order mandated that Mann wear an alcohol abstinence tag and adhere to other specified requirements as a consequence of his behavior.
Mann's legal troubles stemmed from his struggles with mental health issues, including borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety, which he has faced for the past 15 to 20 years. Despite these challenges, the district judge, Adrian Lower, expressed concern over Mann's inability to accept the end of his relationship.
The judge stated, "Time to grow up Anton Mann," underscoring the need for Mann to take responsibility for his actions. The court noted that Mann's behavior has not only impacted his ex-partner but has also caused friction with his new housemate in Leeds.
In addition to his jail sentence, Mann must pay £85 in prosecution costs and a £154 statutory surcharge. The judge revoked the previously imposed community order due to Mann's repeated violations and included jail terms for these offenses within the 12-week sentence.
Mann's case highlights the complexities of managing relationships when legal boundaries are set. The court’s decision aims to reinforce the importance of adhering to such orders and the consequences of ignoring them.
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