Community service for PSM woman who caused 'misery' to neighbours' lives

56-year-old must carry out 240 hours of unpaid work

A Port St Mary woman who harassed her next-door neighbours has been ordered to carry out 240 hours of unpaid work.

Gillian Maria Phillips, of Bay View Road, was sentenced at Douglas Courthouse after being found guilty of two offences of displaying conduct amounting to harassment.

The court heard the 56-year-old had caused ‘misery’ to the couple, and their two children, between 20 March and 5 April last year.

She was also found guilty of two counts of provoking behaviour – committed on 13 February and 11 May – and of escaping from lawful custody on 7 December.

The court heard Phillips had suggested to members of the public she was filming them and was being ‘unpleasant’ whilst doing so.

During sentencing it was noted that Phillips had been suffering from ‘paranoia’ and had ‘mental health issues’ but was unwilling to accept she would benefit from support from the Probation Service.  

Phillips’ advocate told the court there were ‘clearly issues with her walking about with a camera’ adding: “These offences, of course, they’ve upset the people who reported them to the police.”

Adding that they were ‘unsophisticated’ he said he felt community service would benefit her as she was unemployed telling the court: “Idle hands don’t often assist with positive behaviour.”

The court was also told a number of other offences of provoking behaviour and harassment had been withdrawn by the prosecution.

Imposing a Community Service Order, which must be completed within the next 12 months, Deputy High Bailiff Rachael Braidwood said it may provide Phillips with a ‘stepping stone’ back into employment.

“It’s clear you’ve caused misery to your neighbours by your actions,” she added.

Describing her as an ‘intelligent woman’ she advised her: “Your energies could be better spent elsewhere.”

Phillips was also fined £1100 and ordered to pay £3,500 in prosecution costs.

The court was also told the prosecution is applying for an Antisocial Behaviour Order but as Phillips will not consent to the ASBO being made a separate hearing will take place on 20 March.