Supervision for texting threats

Joshua Levi Rowlands, 19, was ordered to undergo nine months' supervision after pleading guilty to sending texts threatening to kill or cause grievous bodily harm. Posed image.

It was an "on again, off again" relationship between Joshua Levi Rowlands and his partner but when she finally ended it he sent her numerous text messages threatening to kill or seriously harm her.

Before Judge Tony Walsh the 19-year-old pleaded guilty in Masterton District Court to threatening to kill or cause grievous bodily harm and was sentenced to nine months' supervision.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Garry Wilson said on July 19 Rowlands' partner sent him a text message ending the relationship.

During the next three days the Martinborough vineyard worker sent a number of text messages asking her not to end the relationship.

Then, during an 11-hour period on July 23, Rowlands sent 15 "highly threatening" text messages to the woman, threatening to kill her or do grievous bodily harm to her, Mr Wilson said.

"She felt scared he might go to the house and carry out the threats."

When spoken to by police Rowlands said he was angry they had broken up but he never intended following through on the threats, he said.

Most of the messages had swearing in them but many threatened to kill her, including: "so text me whether you wana fix it slowly or whether you'd just rather die slowly?" and "as soon as I see you no one can save you from that point".

Defence lawyer Frank Minehan said his client was remorseful and had an alcohol problem which needed addressing.

"He obviously has ongoing problems."

Judge Walsh told Rowlands it was a "serious offence" carrying a maximum penalty of seven years' imprisonment.

He told Rowlands he needed to focus on his rehabilitation and realise the relationship was at an end.

"The complainant wants no more contact with you."

Judge Walsh signed a final protection order and ordered Rowlands undergo nine months' supervision with special conditions to undertake a stopping violence and drug and alcohol programme as directed by a probation officer.