Restraining order for man found hiding in ex's wardrobe

A Douglas man has been handed a restraining order after he was caught hiding in his ex-girlfriend's wardrobe with a knife. 

30-year-old Wayne Charles Smith, of Mona Drive, was found hiding in her house, on Lakeside Road, by police in November last year. 

It followed a campaign of harassment against her, between November 1st and 6th, which included setting up fake Facebook profiles. 

After being cautioned for his behaviour, which followed the breakdown of their four year relationship, he went missing and his ex-partner was moved to a safe house.  

When police returned to her property they found the loft hatch open and went on to discover Smith hiding in wait. 

Smith later pleaded guilty to provoking behaviour and displaying conduct which caused fear of violence. 

During a sentencing hearing at Douglas Courthouse yesterday his advocate told the court his offending "could have been brewing for some time". 

He said prison, where Smith has spent the last 15 weeks, had "given him a break from the factors which were triggering his mental illness". 

Asking the court to support the implementation of a Probation Order he said "I think we have the opportunity here to help this man turn his life around". 

Sentencing him Deputy High Bailiff Jayne Hughes imposed a two year order, as well as the restraining order, telling Smith it must have been "extremely frightening" for the woman.