A man who threatened to share intimate images of his former girlfriend has avoided going to prison.

Christian Ian Barnard’s actions caused “significant psychological harm” to the victim.

Bournemouth Crown Court heard the relationship between the defendant and the victim had ended on a “sour note” and arguments had taken place.

Barnard pleaded guilty to threatening to disclose private sexual photographs.

The 44-year-old was found not guilty of a second like charge but guilty of criminal damage following a trial in July.

The court heard the criminal damage took place several days after the convicted threat offence.

The damage was caused when the defendant had gone to the victim’s property to collect his belongings under an arrangement with police.

At the sentencing hearing on Thursday, August 31, Judge William Mousley KC said: “You made a threat to disclose private sexual photographs of (the victim) which you had in your possession.”

The judge added: “You took further revenge by causing damage to the garage door, electrical fittings and indeed I am quite sure other items of property.”

Reading a statement in court, the victim said: “I am in fear of the threats being carried out.”

She described being unable to sleep and the lasting psychological impact of the defendant’s offending.

Prosecutor Simon Walters said the defendant had eight previous convictions for 10 offences, including harassment and breach of a restraining order, which related to previous relationships.

Mitigating, Philomena Murphy said Barnard entered the guilty plea at the earliest opportunity and expressed remorse from the outset.

In relation to the criminal damage, Ms Murphy said her client did not attend the victim’s address out of the blue. She said there was an agreement with police for him to collect his belongings.

Barnard, of Malmesbury Park Place, Bournemouth, was “very willing” to engage with the probation service.

Judge Mousley KC said: “You caused very serious distress and significant psychological harm to (the victim).”

He said a suspended sentence was appropriate given the impact immediate custody would have on others who were not responsible for the defendant's offending.

Barnard was sentenced to 16 weeks' imprisonment, however, this was suspended for 18 months.

He must complete a Building Better Relationships programme and do 200 hours of unpaid work.

The defendant received a two-year restraining order and must pay his victim £500 in compensation and £2,500 towards prosecution’s costs.