Suspended sentence for Offaly man who tried to force his way into ex-partner's home

A MAN who tried to force his way into the home of his ex-partner also assaulted her, the local district court heard last week.

Aaron Campbell (26), Castlekealy Lawns, Daingean had called to the woman's home on November 9, 2022, at Castlecourt, Daingean, when she opened the door he tried to force his way in. She managed to push him back out and rang her son.

When her son arrived on the estate, a row broke out between him and Aaron Campbell. The son fell to the ground on his face.

After the fight Mr Campbell put his fist through the living room window of his ex-partner's house and then through the headlights of her car. He was located by gardai hiding in a neighbour's garden.

Mr Campbell had six previous convictions, five of which were for road traffic offences.

On November 10, 2021 he was convicted of drunk driving and disqualified for one year.

Solicitor Donal Farrelly said the defendant was quite drunk at the time but he was forthcoming when he was being interviewed.

He said his client was 26 years old and had been in a relationship with the woman and he had sought to repair it. When her son came a scuffle broke out.

Mr Campbell had pleaded guilty and was extremely contrite. He was currently in custody and has had difficulties there. He was never in prison before and he found it very frightening.

He had penned a letter to his ex-partner expressing his love and regret and saying he hopes they can get back together.

He said Mr Campbell has mental health issues. He will join AA if released and will pay all fines if given time.

“He is trying to do a safe pass course and has a good record. I would ask you to give him a chance,” said Mr Farrelly.

Judge Cody said the injured party had made it clear that she wants nothing to do with the defendant. He said the letter he had written was quite worrying in this regard. Garda Loughnane said the ex-partner lives in a neighbouring estate.

Taking the stand Aaron Campbell under questioning from Mr Farrelly agreed that he had been in prison since November 11, 2022 and found it difficult and intimidating. He would not go near his ex-partner at all if released, he said.

Judge Cody sentenced Aaron Campbell to six months in prison which he suspended for five years subject to him not going anywhere near his ex-partner.