Hammer-wielding mum smashes window of partner’s ex after ‘verbal altercation’
A "FRUSTRATED" mother-of-four smashed her neighbour's window with a hammer after a "verbal altercation", a court has heard.
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Danielle Kershaw was in full view of a police officer when she used the weapon to hit the glass. Magistrates at North Staffordshire Justice Centre heard how the 24-year-old had a row after her TV was allegedly damaged prior to the incident.
The court heard the victim had previously been in a relationship with Kershaw's partner and had three children with him.
Police were called to Kershaw’s address in Meir, Stoke-on-Trent, at around 9pm on August 8 after receiving reports suggesting a man had damaged a TV, Stoke-on-Trent Live reported.
Prosecutor Sue Hayers said: "At around 9pm, the injured party heard sirens and saw blue lights at the defendant's address.
"At 9.30pm, she had a call from the defendant.
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“There was a verbal altercation outside the address.
"The injured party called 999 and police attended her address.
“While a police officer was present, she heard a window smash.
"The police officer saw Miss Kershaw reaching over the fence, swinging what looked like a hammer, and smash the window. She was arrested."
Kershaw later pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage.
She has no previous convictions.
Mitigating, Kate Preston said: "On this date somebody was arrested for allegedly causing damage to Miss Kershaw's television.
“The police asked the injured party if she could provide a statement with regard to that and she told police she did not see anything.
"Miss Kershaw was frustrated by that.
“She impulsively banged on the window of the injured party's property.
“This was not premeditated."
Magistrates handed Kershaw a six-month conditional discharge for the crime.
She must also pay £100 compensation for the damage, plus £92 in court costs and charges.