Man stripped off and paraded around naked in front of neighbours

Mansfield Magistrates’ Court heard that Paul Hill, of no fixed address, appeared at his former partner’s home on June 11 and assaulted her by pushing her before breaking a internal window.

Marjorie Kirkham-Smith, prosecuting, told the court how after being arrested and bailed for common assault and criminal damage Hill went back to his estranged partner’s house the next day.

He was described by a neighbour as ‘butt naked’ and ‘swinging around naked’. Police were called and he was arrested again - this time with a quantity of cannabis in his possession.

Morgan Hogarth, defending, said Hill had previous cannabis possession and public order offences.

“He accepts the criminal damage charge from the outset,” said Mr Hogarth. “He now accepts the assault element was completely retaliatory.

“The difficulty for him was the next day. He was found with a small amount of cannabis and for reasons he finds inexplicable he stripped naked.”

Mr Hogarth said Hill had been diagnosed with depression and appeared to have a personality disorder.

“At the time he had no employment and no fixed abode,” said Mr Hogarth.

“He was facing the breakdown of his relationship and had no means of income. This may explain why he undertook these actions which were so unusual.

“It is a very serious offence but not in the higher end in these circumstances.”

Hill admitted charges of common assault, criminal damage, possession of cannabis and public indecency.

Magistrates adjourned the case until July 6, pending a report and ordered Hill not to contact his ex-partner and to reside at a friend’s address in Annesley.