A man who sent some 185 texts to the same person in under two months has been made the subject of a restraining order for harassment.

Brendan Patrick O’Brien, aged 65, admitted the offence and was also fined £300.

We previously reported how, between June 17 and August 7, 65-year-old O’Brien sent the messages, some of which included abusive language.

When arrested O’Brien admitted to officers that he had sent all the messages, explaining that he believed the man was trying to take his flat.

Difficulties

He claimed he was not trying to scare or threaten him but accepted how it could have harassed him.

Defence advocate David Reynolds said: ’It is clear from the circumstances there has been ongoing difficulties between these two gentlemen for some time.

’Mr O’Brien realises he should have dealt with this through civil courts and shouldn’t have been sending messages in the way that he has.

’There are ongoing issues which are hopefully going to be resolved.

’ He is going to give his phone to his son if he does feel the urge to respond.’

The court heard that O’Brien has no previous convictions.

Harassment

Deputy High Bailiff Jayne Hughes pointed out that O’Brien had been cautioned in March for an incident involving the same man.

’You didn’t learn,’ said Mrs Hughes.

’You should have desisted your harassment of him.’

O’Brien was made the subject of the restraining order for two years which forbids him from contacting the man by any electronic means.

He must also pay £125 prosecution costs.