An abusive boyfriend who told his ex “I hope someone murders you” whined to police she was “antagonising” him.
Robert Whitton sent the menacing email to his former partner just days after their relationship broke down.
He told her “I hope you die before someone meets you,” and despaired “so much for love.”
Whitton, 51, appeared at Forfar Sheriff Court and pled guilty to a domestically-aggravated charge of causing fear, alarm or distress to his ex-partner by sending a message that was grossly offensive or of an indecent nature.
He was banned from contacting his former girlfriend for two years.
Email exchange
Fiscal depute Jill Drummond told the court: “The complainer and the accused were in a relationship for two years and nine months.
“They lived together at the locus in Silport Place, Carnoustie, but separated in early May 2022.”
She said: “Just after 11am on May 22, the accused’s ex-partner received an email from him regarding the end of the relationship.
“Both went on to exchange emails throughout the day.
“Later, the complainer received another email from the accused.”
It read: “I hope you die before you meet someone. So much for love.
“I hope someone murders you.”
Ms Drummond said Whitton’s ex was alarmed by the message and did not respond.
He sent a follow-up email, telling her that he had smashed his van and it was “all your fault”.
She reported the exchange to police.
When Whitton was questioned by arresting officers, he told them: “She was antagonising me.”
He gave investigators a “no comment” interview.
The prosecutor said Whitton’s ex had asked for the court to impose a non-harassment order (NHO).
No criminal background
Solicitor Michael Boyd told the court: “My client apologises for his conduct.
“This came about because of the breakdown of the relationship.”
He said: “Mr Whitton has no previous convictions and there has been no repeat of this behaviour.”
Mr Boyd urged the court to admonish his client, “given the passing of time and the nature of this offence.”
Whitton had been out of trouble since his case last called in court six months ago.
Imposing the two-year NHO, Sheriff Krista Johnstone told him: “You are a man of mature years and you have no record.
“But clearly what was said in this email had considerable effect on your former partner and I have to take into account the harm that was caused.”
Whitton, of Dundee Loan, Forfar, was fined £200.
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