Spurned lover stole ex-partner's sex toys
A JEALOUS boyfriend stole sex toys from an ex-partner to prevent her using them with a new lover, a court heard.
Paul Ashcroft stole lingerie, gauntlets, shackles and a whip from the home he once shared with Claire Bainbridge.
The 41-year-old had bought the items as a birthday present when the couple shared a house in Kingsley Place, Gateshead, Newcastle Crown Court was told.
But once the relationship broke down jealous Ashcroft, upset at Ms Bainbridge's new relationship, entered the home and stole the erotic items from an upstairs drawer.
Ashcroft, now of Scafell Gardens, Gateshead, admitted theft when he appeared at Newcastle Crown Court.
Bridie Smurthwaite, prosecuting, said after stealing the items Ashcroft sent Ms Bainbridge a text message telling her to "check her drawers".
"She went upstairs and discovered the intimate items bought during their relationship were missing," said Ms Smurthwaite.
"The defendant was arrested two days later and the items were recovered from his new temporary accommodation."
Ashcroft told investigating officers he "wanted to stop her wearing them for her new partner", Ms Smurthwaite told the court.
Michael Hodson, defending, said Ashcroft was drunk and angry at the time, but realised he had behaved "extremely badly".
He also said Ashcroft was now in a new relationship.
Judge David Hodson, the Recorder of Newcastle, gave Ashcroft a two-year conditional discharge and ordered him to pay 450 in court costs.
"This was pretty disgraceful behaviour," he said.
"There is no excuse for doing what you did in stealing those items.
"I trust that the relationship has now come to an end.
"I have been told there has been no further difficulties and each of you now has a fresh relationship.
"I suggest you concentrate on that."
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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