‘Creepy and unhinged' Uber Eats driver harassed wife and caused school lockdown
Edward Myatt, of no fixed abode, appeared before the IW Magistrates' Court for sentencing on Friday, August 1.
The 41-year-old was found guilty on May 21 of common assault, harassment without violence, and using threatening or abusive behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.
Prosecutor Serena Edwards told the court that between February 28 and April 22, 2024, Myatt subjected his wife of 17 years to a campaign of harassment, including unsolicited contact in person, by video call and via messages.
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The court heard that despite being arrested, following police reports from Myatt's wife, and bailed under conditions not to contact her or attend her home, he persistently breached these restrictions.
Ms Edwards said Myatt often attended places she was known to be, including St Francis Catholic and C of E Primary Academy in Ventnor.
St Francis Catholic and C of E Primary Academy (Image: IWCP)
Magistrates heard that Myatt's behaviour left his wife feeling constantly on edge, checking her doors and 'looking over her shoulder.'
In a victim statement, she described his actions as 'creepy' and 'unhinged,' expressing concern he might do something 'drastic,' feeling she had to distance herself for safety reasons.
On March 12, Myatt caused alarm at St Francis when he attempted to take one of his children shopping – falsely claiming social services had authorised the outing, the court was told.
Ms Edwards said when Myatt was stopped by a nursery manager, he forced his way into the building and began speaking manically, prompting the nursery to evacuate and the rest of St Francis school to go into lockdown - a serious incident that was reported by the County Press at the time.
Police arrived to find Myatt agitated and taking his clothes off inside the nursery, magistrates heard.
He was detained after being inside for around 15 minutes.
Jessica Kayanja, defending, acknowledged the seriousness of the offences but stressed there had been no intent to cause fear or harm.
She said her client's actions stemmed from a desire to see his children and noted that the trial bench had described the case as 'sad.'
Ms Kayanja said Myatt, an Uber Eats delivery driver, has begun turning his life around – attending weekly Inclusion sessions, beginning therapy, and showing remorse.
Magistrates imposed an 18-month community order, which includes 130 hours of unpaid work and 20 rehab days.
He must pay £620 costs and a £114 surcharge.
A two-year restraining order was granted, prohibiting Myatt from contacting his wife by any means except through family court proceedings.
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