A man’s obsessive emails, violating a restraining order, led to his ex wife suffering acute mental distress.
The court issued the order in August 2024 following his abuse towards his former wife. He was not to contact her in any way, enter her area of Caerphilly, or visit her workplace. He couldn’t enter places she was in or search for her online.
Prosecutors said he broke this order between September 15 and October 17, sending about five or six emails each day. The emails said he loved her and wanted to meet. He also made rude comments about her partner, and some emails even included love poems.
He emotionally threatened to hurt himself; the abuse was so severe that she felt suicidal. She stated her family saved her life. Rowlands’ lawyer blamed his cocaine addiction, saying it made him unable to cope after his divorce.
The judge sentenced Rowlands to 18 months in prison for harassment, breaking the restraining order. They issued a new restraining order too, one that will last for seven years.
The judge told Rowlands that he was selfish, noting that he contacted her right after his release, said he loved her and apologized, then threatened to harm himself. “She is worn out,” the judge stated. “She wants nothing to do with you.”
The judge said it’s a sad situation, and he let down himself and his family. His obsession had no limits, she noted, adding that she will repeat that his ex wants nothing to do with him.
The judge noted he abused her emotionally. Before, Rowlands had a good job and family ties. He then lost his job, home, and started using drugs. She hoped jail would be a wake-up call.