A MAN who sent an obscene letter and drawing to a woman in the post and “repeatedly” misused the 999 service, has been given a community order.

Michael Skelton, 62, sent the letter, which referred to a named woman, to an address in Whitehaven on October 11, 2021, Workington Magistrates’ Court heard.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting, said the letter was “sexual” and “graphic”. There was a drawing by the defendant which depicted people taking part in a sexual act.

The victim had previously received a letter from Skelton and knew it was his handwriting.

Ms Fee said the victim was “distressed” when she saw the content of the letter. She was “scared” about what he might do next and no longer felt safe in her own home.

The defendant was interviewed and gave ‘no comment’.

Skelton was then dealt with for misuse of the 999 system on September 15 last year. He “repeatedly” made 999 calls, attempting to order a Chinese.

He was told numerous times not to use the 999 system, the court heard. Police were despatched to Skelton’s address where they heard him misusing the 999 system through an open window.

Officers entered his address and he was arrested.

A probation officer said a psychiatric assessment had been carried out on Skelton and a number of agencies were involved. He was now engaging with a mental health worker.

Skelton, of Glebe Lane, Distington, pleaded guilty to sending an obscene or indecent article and sending by public communication network a false message to cause annoyance, inconvenience or anxiety, during earlier court proceedings.

Claire Kirkpatrick, defending, said: “The obscene article dates back to 2021. He is an extremely vulnerable individual with significant mental health conditions. He has been sectioned on his most recent admission to hospital.

“When he experiences a downturn, offences are sometimes committed. He has never lacked the enthusiasm to engage with agencies.

“He would not cope well in a custodial setting at all.”

Passing sentence, Christopher Droeut, lead magistrate, said: “What you did was not acceptable in any way. We have considered your mental health and the probation report.”

Skelton was given an 18-month community order with 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

He was fined £120 and must pay £85 costs and a £114 victim surcharge.