Dorothy Westerman
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Jan 06/06) - A man described as a menace to his former spouse was sentenced to 11 months in jail for assault and uttering threats.

The 36-year-old man was sentenced in territorial court this week after incidents at his former partner's home on Oct. 31 and Nov. 18 in Yellowknife.

The court heard that on Oct. 31 at about 8 p.m., the man knocked on the door of the residence and tried to gain entry by pushing through an open door.

He struck the hand of the woman and then punched her on the chin.

She was able to close the door and call police. He was arrested the next day.

According to the Crown, the man returned to the home on Nov. 18 and kicked down the door, breaking the lock and frame.

The victim, who was at home with their two children, hid in the laundry room. When she thought the intruder left, she came out of hiding, only to find the accused still in her home.

The man then grabbed a wooden stick and started chasing her out of the house. He also threatened to hit her with an axe.

The victim went to a neighbour's home and called police.

In court, the man pleaded guilty to the offences.

Judge Brian Bruser said he had to take into account the man's lengthy criminal record, dating back to 1987, and said the past may be repeating itself.

"This is a triple breach of trust I am dealing with," Bruser said of the incidents.

"Your behaviour amounted to terrorizing the mother.

"All three are victims. Your behaviour is not a message of love to them," Bruser said of the man's children, aged six and 12.

The man must also serve a year probation after his release and must not have any contact with the woman, except through a third party for child visitation purposes.