Man charged after sending former partner repeated messages despite restraining order

A 31-year-old man from Paola has been charged with harassing his former partner, breaching a restraining order, and committing an offence while subject to a supervision order.

The man cannot be named due to court order.

The victim, his ex-partner, told police that the couple had been in a relationship for a year and a half before it ended. The man had previously been found guilty of domestic violence against the same victim, and a two-year restraining order had been in force since 6 November.

Between 6 and 19 November, the accused sent multiple messages to the victim through social media platforms, including Telegram and Instagram, as well as through the Revolut app. While none of the messages contained threats, the act still constituted a breach of the restraining order.

He pleaded guilty.

Bail was requested for the accused and because of his early admission of the charges, the prosecution did not object.

Bail was granted against a €500 deposit and €5,500 personal guarantee.

A protection order was issued in favour of the victim to safeguard her.  A probation officer was also assigned to monitor the man and issue a pre-sentencing report.

Inspector Christian Cauchi prosecuted the case. Defence lawyer Jason Magri represented the accused. Magistrate Ann-Marie Thake presided.