Man given community order for "appalling" behaviour towards wife

Andrew Bennett, 47, admitted using controlling and coercive behaviour towards his wife after she decided to end their relationship.

Bennett, of Prospect Court in Market Drayton, was given a community order and restraining order at Shrewsbury Crown Court yesterday.

Recorder Graham Huston told him he will also have to take part in a course to build better relationships.

He said: "You have pleaded guilty of the period from June to October last year that you behaved in, frankly an appalling manner towards your wife, to whom you were married for 14 years.

"In July there was an incident in which she was assaulted and that didn't result in a prosecution but it was obvious to everyone that the relationship had broken down.

"It is something that you should have realised. You should have respected her wishes and given thought to how a divorce could be conducted in a manner in the interests of everybody.

"The fact there was this incident should have brought you to your senses.

"You say you wanted to give this marriage another go. By that, you meant moving back into the home whether she wanted you to or not. She had no way of stopping you and you moved back in."

The court was told that Bennett had demanded to see his wife's phone, and that he feared she had moved on.

Prosecuting, Miss Saleema Mahmood told the court on another occasion he had pushed her face with the palm of his hand, causing her lipstick to smear across her face.

Recorder Huston added: "You did that because you were enraged by the thought she had made herself look attractive, or in your words, dolled herself up before going out.

"It is the behaviour of a very controlling and jealous individual."

Defending, Mr Michael Whitty told the court Bennett was of previous good character and had no previous convictions until his wife decided she wanted to get a divorce.

He said: "Many people go through the process of divorce without resorting to this behaviour.

"The behaviour is out of character and while not trying to excuse this behaviour, it should be put into proper context."

Bennett was given a community order for two years with requirements to attend a "Building Better Relationships" programme, as well as taking part in a rehabilitation requirement.

He was ordered to pay £535 costs and was given a restraining order not to contact his ex-wife.