A Newry woman who slashed tyres on her ex-partner’s car on two occasions must wait until next month to learn her fate.
The 37-year-old’s legal representative told court: “She was in a relationship with the injured party, which he described as casual…she felt she was being used and that he was ignoring her.”
Patrice Mary Rodgers, of Edward Street, pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article in a public place, persistent improper use of communications and two counts of criminal damage at the city’s Magistrates’ Court, via videolink from her solicitor’s office.
Prosecution outlined that on May 13, police received a report of the tyres of a man’s car being slashed on Dominic Street in Newry.
The injured party stated that on a previous occasion, he had observed the defendant slashing the tyres of his car.
Police attended Rodger’s home and arrested her for the offences before the court and during interview she made no comment to all questions put.
The injured party later informed police that he had received a number of missed calls and voicemails from the defendant.
Defence counsel stated: “This is a lady with two previous cautions. Unfortunately she will be leaving court today with an entry on her criminal record.
“She was in a relationship with the injured party, which he described as casual…she felt she was being used and that he was ignoring her.”
He continued: “On both occasions alcohol was taken, her mental health isn’t great at the moment…there are also issues with alcohol…..but she does appear to be a lady scorned.”
Court heard that one of Rodgers’ previous cautions was in relation to a similar allegation involving another ex-partner.
District Judge Eamonn King commented: “She doesn’t seem to have the best luck in relationships.”
Her legal representative quipped: “A bad choice in men perhaps.”
Noting the defendant’s underlying issues, District Judge King ordered a pre-sentence report and the case was adjourned until July 21.
