📝 CASE SUMMARY:

A dangerous and domestic abuser has been jailed for harassment, repeatedly breaching a restraining order against her ex-girlfriend and her daughter, along with theft and assault.

Melanie Cooper, 28, of Sutton Heath Drive in St. Helens, attended trial at Liverpool Magistrates Court on 4th February 2025 and received a 26-week prison sentence after being found guilty of 2 breaches of a restraining order, theft, and assault towards her ex-girlfriend.

The court heard that the relationship began in December 2021 and was unhealthy from the start. Cooper took her victim’s prescribed painkillers daily, leaving her vulnerable and in pain. She also withdrew £60 daily to fund her cannabis and painkiller addiction while subjecting the victim to mental, emotional, and physical abuse.

After the breakup in August 2023, Cooper began harassing the victim, sleeping in her garden, shouting abuse, and frightening her daughter. Despite being issued a non-molestation order in September 2023, and a 3-year restraining order in October, Cooper repeatedly breached the terms from March to December 2024.

On December 10, 2024, Cooper entered her victim’s home, stealing belongings and her bank card. An altercation occurred when the victim tried to retrieve the card, resulting in facial scratches. She was arrested on December 13, with the bank card still in her possession, and remanded in custody.

During the trial, Cooper denied all charges, claiming not to have seen the victim for months. Prosecutors highlighted the long-term trauma inflicted on the victim. The judge condemned Cooper’s history of harassment and refusal to accept responsibility. Her prior offenses in 2021 were also considered during sentencing.

Cooper will serve half of her 6-month sentence in custody before being released on license. She has a 5-year restraining order and is considered a continued risk, often using dating sites to meet new victims. Please share to help protect others.