A young man who was caught with a machete in Swindon town centre before Christmas has appeared in court after forcing himself into his ex-girlfriend’s flat.
25-year-old Leon Wilson pleaded guilty to using violence to secure entry when he appeared at Swindon Magistrates’ Court from police custody this afternoon (Thursday).
Keith Ballinger said the defendant went to his former partner’s flat in Torrington Court, in Park North, but when she didn’t allow him in to see his child, he started punching the door.
He went on open the door and pushed his way into the flat. The victim, and a friend, managed to push the door closed and lock Wilson out and the police were called.
The incident in November 2022 came shortly after the woman told him that she had a new partner. It’s alleged the defendant told her she would kill him when he finds out who he is.
The court heard that he has previous convictions for assault and criminal damage against the same victim. In December, Wilson was handed a suspended sentence for carrying a machete in Swindon town centre.
The woman said the feels scared to be home alone and has trust issues with new partners due to their relationship. She claims to have low self-esteem and is worried that Wilson will turn up at her address again.
Moses Uzodima-Tawo, defending, said his client has mental health issues in which he is medicated and suggested the bench adjourn the case for a mental health assessment to be carried out. Probation officer Michelle James agreed, adding that Wilson also has an undiagnosed learning difficulty.
He was released on bail with conditions not to contact the victim directly or indirectly (save for child contact via a third party) and not to go to Torrington Court.
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