Threats man had suffered brain injuries in road accident

A man who threatened to kill his ex girlfriend and attacked a mum getting off a bus has been given a hospital order after a judge heard he had suffered a brain injury in a road accident.
Crown CourtCrown Court
Crown Court

Preston man Richard Pape, 24, who was accompanied to court by four staff from Ashworth Hospital, told a probation worker he was going to break his ex girlfriend’s legs, torch her home and kill her during a session on April 14.

Lucy Crimmin, prosecuting, said: “During the course of the supervision session Mr Pape became what she describes as being unpredictable and excitable, making random remarks and observations that were of concern to her.

“She suggested he should go and see his GP.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“At that point he said his ex girlfriend had ruined his life, that he was going to break her legs, set fire to her flat and kill her. He said would knock anyone out who tried to stop him. Police were called when he left.”

She described how in a separate incident a woman had seen him on a bus talking to himself and had tried to speak to him.

An argument developed and he followed her off the bus and kicked her in the back. The woman had tripped over her son’s pram.

Pape pleaded guilty to making threats to kill and threatening to cause damage at Preston Crown Court.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Beverley Hackett, defending, said: “The defendant always made it clear to me he intended to plead guilty to these matters. It is clear this has been a very long journey, not just for him but those in court in support of him, his mother and stepfather. He is in a very good place making remarkable improvements.

“He wishes to apologise to the victims in this case.”

Judge Lancaster imposed a section 37 hospital order and said: “It seems to me from all the evidence I’ve read you’ve had difficulties since you suffered injuries in a road traffic accident. That’s not your fault. A lot of the problems you’ve had since then are a result of that brain injury.

“The medical evidence is extensive and it’s clear what the court ought to do is make hospital order that will ensure you’re in a safe place and that you get the help you need to recover from your difficulties.”