Wayne Justice, a 44-year-old man from Whitley Bay, has been sentenced to two years in prison for harassing his former partner and breaching a restraining order, leaving her suffering from severe panic attacks.
Background of the case
In September 2023, Justice was subjected to an indefinite restraining order that prohibited any contact with his ex-partner. Despite this, in April 2024, he used a fake Facebook account to contact her, referencing the song 'Take Me Home' by Jess Glynne, which had personal significance to the victim. She immediately recognized it was Justice.
Harassment details
According to prosecutor Neil Pallister, on April 19, 2024, the victim began receiving multiple calls, messages, and FaceTime calls from Justice. In one voicemail, Justice was heard laughing. The court heard that the woman was left "seriously upset" and in her statement described feeling "ill" and experiencing "massive panic attacks." She noted that Justice used to cause her "terror" and that she has since required therapy.
Defendant's record
Justice has 28 previous convictions for 49 offences, including prior breaches of restraining orders. His defense lawyer, Mark Harrison, cited his guilty plea and alcohol as contributing factors, stating, "He regrets this behavior."
Sentencing
Recorder Brian Whitehead remarked, "You are somebody who simply ignores court orders. I don't have any real confidence you will change," before sentencing Justice to two years in prison.
