Tyson Bradley Howden’s 750 texts, 50 calls to female victim labelled a ‘severe amount of controlling behaviour’

A Central Queensland man with a “very responsible job” has been given a “last chance” to stay out of jail after he used a carriage service to menace, harass or offend. Here’s what happened.

Tyson Bradley Howden.

A Central Queensland man’s 750 text messages and 50 calls to his female victim have been described as a “severe” case of controlling behaviour and emotional abuse.

Tyson Bradley Howden, 45, pleaded guilty in Yeppoon Magistrates Court on October 13 to using a carriage service to menace, harass or offend.

The court heard Howden’s offending happened between August 30 and September 6.

“These messages and missed calls came after the victim asked (Howden) to stop contacting her on numerous occasions,” Police Prosecutor Sergeant Kevin Ongheen said.

“Police saw these text messages and missed calls and they came from (Howden’s) mobile telephone number.

“Police saw the contents - there was a severe amount of controlling behaviour, bad language, and emotional abuse.”

Sgt Ongheen said police spoke to Howden on September 6 and gave him the opportunity to be interviewed but he declined.

He was subsequently charged.

Solicitor Cam Schroder first addressed Howden’s criminal history.

“Your Honour, my client’s criminal history is appalling,” Mr Schroder said.

“His problem lies in that he values the institution of marriage very highly - he simply wanted to be a good father and a good husband.

“He’s not good at letting go.”

Mr Schroder said Howden had sought counselling.

“This has brought home to him that the relationship is completely over,” Mr Schroder said.

“He holds down a very responsible job and he is well respected by his peers and his family - his family are all in the back of the court, Your Honour, to support him today.”

Mr Schroder tendered to the court what he described as “an excellent reference” from Howden’s employer.

“And there’s also a report from a psychologist detailing the counsel that he’s getting which is ongoing.”

Acting Magistrate Ron Muirhead said originally he had in mind a term of imprisonment when he saw Howden’s record which included an assault charge among other offences.

“And you did actually serve some time in custody,” Mr Muirhead said.

Before handing down penalty, Mr Muirhead told Howden: “It will be another order, but the bottom line is, this is your last chance.”

Mr Muirhead placed Howden on a two-year good behaviour order with a $2000 recognisance, as well as probation for two years.

A conviction was recorded.