A WOMAN launched a campaign of harassment after her female partner left to move in with a man.
Kimley Round was arrested as she made her way to the couple’s home carrying a hammer and a knife, Durham Crown Court heard.
Prosecutor Paul Lee told the court police arrested Round before she had the chance to use either weapon.
“It seems the woman ended the relationship,” said Mr Lee. “But it had not ended in the mind of this defendant.
“There is a background of Round causing problems which culminated in a suspended sentence for harassment and a restraining order.
“Despite these sanctions, she continued to make contact, although it appears most of the threats were directed at the woman’s new male partner.”
The court heard the couple called police after receiving a series of threatening text messages.
“They attended the couple’s address,” added Mr Lee. “Officers then decided to search the area and found Round in a nearby street. She was carrying a hammer which she threw over a nearby wall.
“A search on arrest found a Stanley knife in her pocket, which she said she was carrying only to harm herself.”
Round, 34, of Bede Terrace, Chester-le-Street, admitted possession of a bladed article on October 27.
She has previous convictions for harassment, battery and a public order offence.
Annelise Haugstad, defending, said in mitigation: “She turned to alcohol after the suicide of her brother and the death of her brother-in-law who also attempted suicide.
“Ms Round is no longer drinking and is living with her parents, but she is deemed unsuitable for community work because of her chaotic lifestyle.”
The Recorder, Jonathan Aitken, sentenced Round to a 12-month supervision order, including an alcohol treatment programme.
The recorder told her: “You are going to have to put this behind you, grow up and get a grip. If you do not, you will be going to prison.”
The knife and hammer was confiscated and will be destroyed.
Round was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £60.
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