Man’s Probation After Flood of Messages to Ex-Partner
Silence Broken: Man’s Probation After Message Storm
Imagine this: your phone buzzes every few minutes, day and night. It’s not a friend checking in, or a group chat gone wild. It’s a relentless stream of messages from an ex-partner, each one a tiny pebble in a growing avalanche of unwanted communication. This was the reality for a local woman, until recently, when her ex-partner was handed a probation order.
The Deluge: 1,500 Messages in 10 Days
In the heart of Malta, in the quiet residential street of Triq San Ġużepp, the woman, who wished to remain anonymous, found herself at the receiving end of a digital storm. Over just 10 days, she received a staggering 1,500 messages from her former partner. The messages, sent via WhatsApp and SMS, ranged from pleading to aggressive, leaving the woman feeling harassed and intimidated.
The Law Steps In: Probation Order Issued
The woman, with the support of local NGO Dar tal-Providenza, reported the incident to the police. The man was subsequently charged under the Peace and Good Behaviour Act, which makes it an offence to use threatening, abusive, or insulting words or behaviour with intent to cause distress or provoke a breach of the peace.
Last week, the man was handed a probation order by Magistrate Donatella Frendo Dimech. The order, lasting 18 months, includes conditions such as refraining from contacting the woman and attending a course on healthy relationships. Failure to comply could result in a jail sentence.
“This sends a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated,” said a spokesperson for Dar tal-Providenza. “We hope this case serves as a deterrent and encourages others to seek help if they find themselves in similar situations.”
Support Services in Malta
If you or someone you know is experiencing similar issues, help is available. Here are a few local services:
- Dar tal-Providenza: A local NGO offering support and shelter to those in need. (Website)
- WiseRespect: An organisation promoting respectful relationships and offering support to victims of domestic violence. (Website)
- Police Hotline: For immediate assistance, call the police on 112.
The woman, reflecting on her experience, hopes her story will encourage others to speak out. “It’s not easy,” she said, “but there is help out there. Don’t suffer in silence.”
