A girl was subjected to death threats and abuse after she ended a relationship with her boyfriend.

Southend magistrates heard that 21-year-old John Pearson subjected former girlfriend Lisa Khan to abusive phone calls and text messages and also harassed her at her home.

Pearson, of The Grove, Southend, pleaded guilty to harassment.

Miss Khan ended her ten month relationship with Pearson in February, but the court heard that he did not want to accept that.

He sent a number of text messages and used threatening and abusive behaviour when he met her, at one point saying "I hope you die of aids", and later, "You are dead".

Miss Khan contacted police and Pearson was arrested and admitted all the allegations.

Michelle Breindel, for the defence, said: "He accepts the charges and no violence was used at any time. He has no intention of contacting Miss Khan again."

In giving their verdict, magistrates said that they had given Pearson credit for his guilty plea, his previous character and his remorse.

Pearson was given a two year conditional discharge - and ordered to pay costs.

Published Monday August 19, 2002

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