David Hillier, 53, crashed his car into his ex-girlfriend’s flat twice, fueled by anger, alcohol and drugs.
During the sentencing, the prosecutor, Julia Brechtelsbauer, revealed Hillier first texted the woman, saying people would talk about her now. This message came right before he crashed into her flat. The woman heard screeching tires and saw headlights flash through her window. Then, he crashed into the property hard, reversed, drove forward, and crashed again.
Immediately after the second crash, she received another text from Hillier saying, “I’m sorry.” Police arrived soon after and arrested him. Initially, he claimed it was an accident, but later admitted to the charges in November, pleading guilty to dangerous driving and criminal damage, actions which recklessly endangered others.
Hillier was 52 when the incident occurred, following a short relationship. The woman has since passed away from illness. The prosecutor highlighted Hillier’s controlling behavior, noting he previously wouldn’t let her leave her flat, taking her keys to trap her. After the breakup, he persistently contacted her, despite her pleas to stop.
The prosecutor stated that Hillier’s crimes were worsened by alcohol and driven, at least partially, by revenge. She also emphasized the significant impact on the victim. Hillier has a long criminal history, with approximately 15 convictions for 39 offenses, mainly involving driving and criminal damage, the last such offense occurring in 2007.
Gaylene Coles, representing Hillier, referenced a report from a psychiatrist who deemed him fit for the court hearing in November. She argued he deserved credit for pleading guilty, and some family members attended court in support. Coles stated that Hillier has been in custody since his arrest and has been diagnosed with dementia and brain damage, potentially stemming from past drug and alcohol abuse.
Coles further detailed that Hillier suffers from several conditions, including lung disease, diabetes, and epilepsy. He experienced seizures and heart attacks while in jail and was also severely assaulted, at least once with a razor. According to Coles, Hillier spends all day in his jail cell, except for shower opportunities, describing his time in custody as very traumatizing. Being unable to read or write makes him vulnerable, and he is now grieving the death of his former partner, whom he called the love of his life.
Coles concluded by stating Hillier was under the influence of drugs and alcohol when committing the offenses. He is now clean and desires to remain so, crying during the explanation. The judge sentenced Hillier to two years in jail, suspended for two years for the criminal damage charge, and another suspended one-year jail term for the dangerous driving charge.
Additionally, Hillier is banned from driving for two years and must pass an extended test to regain his license. He is also required to complete a 30-day rehab program under probation and adhere to a 120-day alcohol abstinence requirement.