Burnley mum-to-be threatened with knife (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Burnley mum-to-be threatened with knife

6:00pm Friday 22nd June 2012 in Burnley By Wendy Barlow, Court reporter

AN angry dad-to-be pulled a knife on his pregnant partner, threw paint around the house and smashed up a Moses basket meant for the new baby, a court heard.

Ex-drug addict Wayne Roberts, 31, had brandished the weapon at terrified mother-of-five Lesley Fallows and left her fearing for her life.

He kicked over the television and also wrecked a baby box after the victim had accused him of buying cigarettes for local children.

Burnley magistrates were told how Roberts, who also threatened to put the victim’s windows through, left the house.

He was seen in the street by the victim’s cousin, who said he was covered from head to toe in white paint.

The defendant told her: “When I get my hands on her, I will kill her," and was angry but smirking as he said it.

Roberts was arrested and questioned and told police: “I wouldn't assault the woman who is carrying my first child."

The hearing was told how Ms Fallows, assessed by police as at “high risk”, was due to give birth in six weeks and she and the defendant were said to be reconciled.

Roberts, of Dalton Street, Burnley, was convicted of common assault and damage. He was given 20 weeks in jail, suspended for two years, with 12 months supervision. He must pay £85 costs.

Hilary Rees, prosecuting, said the defendant and Ms Fallows had had an on/off relationship, she had taken out a restraining order against him in the past, but had dropped it, they had resumed their relationship and she was 22 weeks pregnant at the time.

There had been incidents of violence before.

Mrs Rees said: “The incident was very nasty, distressing and children were present.”

Mark Williams, for Roberts, said the defendant did not strike any blows.

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