A sentencing hearing has begun in Magistrates’ Court for Mark Steede, who previously pleaded guilty to a charge of stalking.
The matter came before the court yesterday, with Crown Counsel Ms. Laura Tyndale outlining details of the case and reading from the summary of evidence statement.
The court heard that the complainant and Steede initially knew each other through shared social circles and had known one another since high school. Their relationship began as a romantic relationship in June 2015.
According to the summary of evidence statement, the relationship was initially marked by moments of connection, but over time became increasingly tumultuous, with the complainant describing what she said were escalating incidents of emotional manipulation and physical violence.
After approximately seven years together, and following previous attempts to end the relationship, the complainant finally ended it on March 31st, 2022.
The court heard that on that date, an alleged physical assault occurred at the complainant’s home.
Another incident was said to have occurred on either June 27th or June 28th, 2022, when Steede allegedly entered the complainant’s home and picked the lock to a bedroom door.
The court heard that he demanded information about the complainant’s whereabouts and activities.
According to the statement, the complainant told Steede that his behaviour was controlling and that he was not respecting her privacy. Despite being asked to leave, he allegedly refused, leaving the complainant feeling violated and fearful.
Crown Counsel Ms. Tyndale further outlined what the court heard was a prolonged pattern of alleged stalking and intimidation.
The prosecution said Steede sent hundreds of text and WhatsApp messages, as well as hundreds of videos and photographs, while allegedly following the complainant to various locations.
The court heard that the behaviour included threats, intimidation and incidents of violence, contributing to what the complainant described as an ongoing sense of fear.
Steede had previously entered a guilty plea to the stalking charge.
The sentencing hearing began yesterday but was adjourned by the Magistrate Auralee Cassidy.
The matter is scheduled to resume on September 30th at 3:30 p.m.
Representing Mark Steede yesterday in Magistrates Court was KC Jerome Lynch, who started his client was remorseful and embarrassed at what he’s done. KC Lynch also stated that over the last four years there’s been no incident of any type of violence towards the victim.
Mr. Lynch takes issue at the prosecution. Looking to sentence Steede to imprisonment of six months is a bit harsh. Mr. Lynch also stated why remove his client from his children that need their father. Mark Steede is a hard-working man who has rent to pay and other bills like any other working father. KC Lynch asked the magistrate to consider a sentence of probation with strict attachments.
Steede was released on bail pending the continuation of the sentencing hearing.
TNN News will continue to follow the matter as it returns before the court.
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