Megaphone ban for Devon woman who harassed neighbours

A woman has been banned from using a megaphone after being convicted of harassing her neighbours over an eight-month period.

Jane Reynolds, 51, from Holsworthy, Devon, was found guilty of harassment without violence following a trial at Exeter Magistrates’ Court.

The court heard that between April and December 2023, Reynolds subjected her neighbours, Melissa Sutcliffe and Michael Drowne, and their five children, to repeated verbal abuse and disruptive behaviour.

Reynolds was given a two-year conditional discharge, and ordered to pay £400 in compensation to her neighbours and £226 in court costs.

The court heard that Miss Sutcliffe and Mr Drowne, who live in Woodland View, installed CCTV with microphones and a dashcam in their car to document the ongoing disturbances.

Reynolds was reported to have shouted abuse, including threats and insults, played loud music with explicit lyrics, and placed offensive posters in her windows, the court heard.

Miss Sutcliffe, who suffers from ME, told the court that the stress of the situation had significantly impacted her health and that of her family.

She said even minor events, such as a dog barking or a delivery arriving, could trigger further outbursts from Reynolds.

Her parents had not visited the home in three years due to concerns about Reynolds’ behaviour.

Reynolds has since moved out of the property.

Defence lawyer Warren Robinson described Reynolds as “her own worst enemy,” noting that she struggled with mental health issues and often expressed anger towards the world.

However, District Judge Stuart Smith said there was no clear diagnosis of her condition.

As part of the ruling, Reynolds is also prohibited from using a public address system or microphone in any public or private setting.