Rhys Richardson, 30, from Mossley Crescent in Newtownabbey, received an 18-month probation order and 100 hours of community service at Ballymena Magistrates' Court. District Judge Nigel Broderick imposed the sentence after Richardson pleaded guilty to domestic abuse. The court heard that Richardson sent his partner a text message stating the relationship could only end by the death of one partner.

Richardson created a document titled in block capitals that required signing to acknowledge the terms. It specified no option to leave the relationship except through death and described it as a life sentence. His partner refused to sign. The judge called the message chilling and noted it traumatised the woman.

A prosecutor outlined the woman's concerns over Richardson's mental health, aggressive behaviour, and erratic actions. The defence stated Richardson showed remorse. Judge Broderick described the behaviour as deplorable but spared jail due to Richardson's clean record.

The sentence includes a five-year restraining order. Richardson must inform his probation officer of any new intimate relationships.