A KNUTSFORD dad left his ex-partner ‘anxious’ and 'unable to leave her home' after a campaign of harassment, a court has heard.

Daniel Chafe, of Middle Walk, admitted a charge of harassment without violence between September 20 and 24, last year.

The 39-year-old had previously denied the offence but changed his plea to guilty on July 10, the day a trial was due to begin.

The defendant was sentenced at Warrington Magistrates Court on Monday, August 7.

Clare Oliver, prosecuting, said the victim was his ex-partner and the couple have children together.

Friction started when his former partner stopped the children going to his flat because he was taking cannabis.

Chafe called her 19 times, sent text messages and visited her place of work during the course of four days.

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Clare Oliver told the court: “She was unable to leave her home because he made her anxious and depressed.

“She was on edge every day, looking over her shoulder, making sure both doors were locked at all times.

“She had to talk to professionals.”

Stuart Flood, defending, said Chafe was ‘very contrite’ about what had happened and realises he ‘should have dealt with this matter better’.

Mr Flood said: “Her concern about his cannabis use is understandable but she was aware he had been medically prescribed cannabis to assist his mental and physical disabilities.”

The couple broke up a year ago, the court heard.

“He was distraught not being able to see his three young children,” said Mr Flood. “That’s what pre-empted this.

“He has always been very close to them.”

Chafe now realises there are other ways to handle the situation.

“He saw one of his sons yesterday and was very excited as he hopes this is the start of better things ahead for his relationship with his children,” said Mr Flood.

“He hopes there may even be a reconciliation with his former partner.”

The couple are having their first conciliatory meeting this week, he told the court.

Chafe was fined £200 and was ordered to pay £400 costs and £114 victim surcharge.

Magistrates said the £714 court penalty must be paid at a rate of £5 per week, deducted from his benefits.

The defendant was ordered to complete up to 40 days on a rehabilitation course.

A restraining order forbids him contacting his ex-partner at her home or place of work for 18 months., except via solicitors, social services or the family court.

Magistrates took his previous good character into consideration when imposing the sentence.

This article initially stated Chafe called at his victim's home 19 times. This is incorrect as he called her 19 times. We apologise for the error.