'Ashamed' Leeds man damaged wife's car during bitter divorce

Kevin Spratt, 53, admitted causing damage worth £250 to the Ford Ka while it was parked up in Guiseley on August 4 last year.

Leeds Magistrates' Court heard the incident was the latest of around 20 alleged offences reported to police since the couple split, with Spratt and his wife both making complaints.

Prosecutor Vicky Trueman said a witness had seen Spratt walking with his dog towards the car in Springfield Road car park shortly before 7pm on the day in question.

The witness said he had walked in front of his wife's car, circled it twice and then made a "deep scratch mark" on the vehicle.

The court heard Spratt, of Chapel Lane, Yeadon, denied causing the damage when first interviewed by police, claiming he simply wanted to see his wife's new car.

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He went on to plead guilty to a single charge of criminal damage.

Magistrates were told Spratt was of previously good character, felt ashamed about his actions and had offered to pay £250 in compensation.

His solicitor said he was undergoing treatment for depression and had been drinking in a pub before damaging the car.

Spratt was given a two-year conditional discharge and ordered to pay £250 compensation, £85 costs and £21 victim surcharge.

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