Love triangles can be messy, but when one party takes it too far, it can lead to disastrous consequences. In the case of a bitter ex who claimed that her victim “stole her man,” her actions have led to a court order to stop harassing the couple or face time behind bars. This story highlights the importance of respecting others’ relationships and boundaries, and the consequences that can occur when those lines are crossed.
Yvonne Derby, a 40-year-old woman from Ardshean, Forkhill in Newry, has been sentenced to 120 hours of community service and a four-month prison sentence suspended for two years after being found guilty of a sustained campaign of harassment against two individuals. Appearing at Armagh Magistrates Court via videolink, Derby faced numerous charges, including harassment, driving while banned and without insurance, assault, and dangerous driving. During the hearing, District Judge Anne Marshall criticised the defendant for ignoring previous court orders and warned her that “this has to stop, today, or you will be in custody for a significant period of time.”
In relation to the harassment charges, it was revealed that Derby had grabbed her ex-partner’s new partner and dragged her to the ground, shouting that “it was because she stole her man.” Despite being warned to stay away from the victim, Derby continued to send social media messages and even engaged in disorderly behaviour, causing the victim to swerve and take evasive action when Derby suddenly slammed on her car brakes in front of the victim’s car. Derby was also found guilty of driving while banned and without insurance, and tampering with a car’s equipment.
Derby’s defence counsel, Kevin O’Hare, argued that there was a denial of the latest allegations against his client and suggested that “something hanging over her head might be better to have a deterrent effect rather than having her re-appear with no supervision.” He added that this was Derby’s first taste of incarceration and had been a salutary lesson. However, the judge noted that Derby had refused to do probation, limiting her options. Additionally, according to the pre-sentence report, Derby had told a probation officer that she would stop harassing her ex but “continues to be in a feud” with his partner.
The judge emphasised the serious and significant impact that Derby’s sustained campaign of harassment had had on the lives of her victims and their families. In addition to the community service order for the harassment charges, Derby was also given a four-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and a two-year driving ban for the driving offences. The outstanding charges relating to the latest offences were adjourned to 18 April.
This case highlights the serious consequences of engaging in a campaign of harassment against others. It serves as a reminder that court orders must be respected and that breaching them can lead to harsh penalties. Derby’s sentence is a warning to others that engaging in such behaviour can result in a significant period of incarceration.
