Appearing in court, a mother filled with jealousy vandalized her ex-boyfriend’s car by scratching a three-letter word on it. Holly Jennings, in a fit of revenge, damaged the car parked outside her ex’s home earlier this year. The 29-year-old from Crewe, Cheshire, smashed the windscreen and inscribed “dog” on the bonnet, causing approximately £3,000 in damages.
Following a call from a concerned neighbor while he was away, the ex-boyfriend discovered the vandalism. Jennings later admitted her actions, expressing regret. She pleaded guilty to criminal damage on October 14 and was fined £120, along with £133 in costs and a surcharge. Despite the incident, her ex-partner chose not to support the prosecution.
The court heard that Jennings and the car owner, who share a child, had ended their relationship, leading him to start a new one. During his absence with his new partner, Jennings made threatening calls regarding his vehicle, culminating in the vindictive act. Acknowledging her wrongdoing, Jennings, who is on Universal Credit and cares for their child, expressed remorse and affirmed she would not repeat such actions.
Addressing Jennings during sentencing, District Judge Jack McGarva emphasized the need to move on from bitterness and advised her to focus on co-parenting for the child’s sake. Recognizing the impulsive nature of the offense, the judge refrained from ordering compensation, citing Jennings’ lack of prior convictions, remorse, and low likelihood of reoffending.
