Man put behind bars for contacting former partner in breach of court order

In a quiet corner of Valletta, near the iconic St. George’s Square, a man found himself in handcuffs this week. His crime? Breaching a court order by contacting his former partner, a common scenario that took a serious turn in our island’s legal scene.

The Breach: A Phone Call and a Text Message

The man, a 38-year-old resident of Msida, had been served a protection order last year, following a heated argument with his then-partner. The order, issued by the Family Court, prohibited him from contacting her in any way. However, in a moment of weakness or defiance, he picked up his phone and broke the silence. A single phone call and a brief text message were all it took to land him in trouble.

His former partner, alarmed and upset, reported the incident to the police. The breach was investigated, and the man was subsequently arrested and remanded in custody pending trial. The case has through Malta’s legal community, serving as a stark reminder of the seriousness of such orders.

The Law: Protection Orders and Their Enforcement

Protection orders, also known as restraining orders, are a powerful tool in Malta’s legal arsenal against domestic violence and harassment. Issued by the Family Court, they can prohibit a person from contacting, approaching, or communicating with the protected individual in any way. Breaching a protection order is a criminal offence, punishable by up to six months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to €2,330.

Magistrate Dr. Joe Mifsud, who presided over the case, emphasized the importance of these orders. “Protection orders are designed to safeguard victims of domestic violence and harassment. Breaching them undermines the very purpose of these orders and will not be tolerated,” he stated.

The Aftermath: A Warning to Others

The man’s arrest and subsequent imprisonment have served as a stark warning to others who might be tempted to breach such orders. The police have also used the case to remind the public of the seriousness of these offences and to court orders.

Superintendent of Police, Maria Spiteri, commented, “We take all reports of breaches of protection orders seriously. We urge anyone who finds themselves in such a situation to seek legal advice and to respect the orders issued by the court.”

For those affected by domestic violence, the Women’s Rights Foundation offers support and legal advice. Their helpline can be reached at 179.

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