A MAN who stalked his ex-boyfriend and threatened to slit his dog's throat had become "obsessed" with him, a court heard.

Gez Trueman, of Somerset Road in West Kirby, Wirral, appeared for sentence at Mold Crown Court on Thursday.

The 23-year-old had previously been convicted of criminal damage and stalking, which took place in New Broughton, Wrexham.

Nicholas Williams, prosecuting, told the court that the victim in relation to both offences was Nathan Griffiths, the defendant's ex-partner.

They had been in an on/off relationship for some four years, but things ended in April this year.

Mr Griffiths described Trueman as having been "aggressive" with him during the relationship and following the breakup, his behaviour amounted to stalking.

Mr Griffiths made it clear he didn't want further contact, but Trueman sent more than 50 bank transfers to the victim for values between 1p and 10p, and included messages with them such as: "Stop ignoring me, I love you, read your messages, I'm coming to find you."

He also turned up at the victim's home more than once, on one occasion pulling a Ring doorbell off the wall and on another banging on his door while he showered - following which he turned Mr Griffiths' electric off in a bid to get to speak to him.

Trueman threatened to slit the victim's dog's throat and said he was "never going to leave him alone and wouldn't give up."

When he was interviewed by the police, he told them: "I was 18 when I fell in love with him and he promised me the world.

"I am obsessed with him."

He also characterised his behaviour, in his own words, as "bat s*** crazy" and "nuts."

Trueman had four previous convictions for seven offences, one of which was a criminal damage involving the same victim.

Alun Williams, defending, confirmed his client had been remanded in custody by Wrexham Magistrates Court based on the risk of further offences.

However, upon hearing Judge Niclas Parry's intention to follow recommendations put forward by the probation service, he made no further representations.

Judge Parry told the defendant: "Mr Trueman, this is a worrying case.

"It involved what can only be described as obsessive behaviour after the breakdown of a relationship.

"And it happened in the face of innumerable, quite reasonable, requests for you to simply leave your victim alone.

"I accept you're genuinely sorry and I take the view you acted out of character following the breakdown of the relationship."

Trueman received a six month custodial sentence but it was suspended for 12 months.

He must undertake 35 days of rehabilitation activity and pay a £154 victim surcharge.

The Judge imposed a five year restraining order prohibiting the defendant from contacting or approaching his victim, as well as entering New Broughton.