A HORSHAM man who verbally abused his mother and threatened to 'smash her house' has avoided an immediate jail term.
Peter James Kennedy pleaded guilty in Horsham Magistrate's Court on Wednesday to having used threatening words and having used a telecommunications device to harass.
Magistrate Jack Vandersteen convicted and jailed Kennedy for three months, wholly suspended for 12 months.
Police prosecutor Leading Senior Constable David Cosgriff told the court that Kennedy verbally abused his mother, including screaming at her and calling her derogatory names on March 23, 2012.
Leading Sen Const Cosgriff said Kennedy was later travelling to Ararat as a passenger in his friend's car on the same day.
He said Kennedy's friend told Kennedy to get out of his car about 5.30pm at Dadswells Bridge because of a disagreement. Kennedy called his mother and asked her to drive from Horsham to pick him up. His mother refused.
Leading Sen Const Cosgriff said Kennedy then called his mother 30 times in five hours, emotionally abusing her.
He said Kennedy told his mother that he would return to Horsham and 'smash her house'.
Police picked up Kennedy between Stawell and Dadswells Bridge.
Officers took him to Wimmera Base Hospital because of concerns for his welfare. Kennedy made a no-comment interview to police.
Victoria Legal Aid solicitor Andrew Tweedly said his client had had a turbulent, strained relationship with his parents and suffered from mental health issues after his father died three years ago.
Mr Tweedly said Kennedy had done a drug rehabilitation program for abuse of cannabis, ice and speed.
He said Kennedy wanted to move to Queensland.
Mr Vandersteen said Kennedy's behaviour was unacceptable.
"Mr Kennedy, your submission said that drugs were part of this," he said.
"But this does not make sense.
"You called your mother 30 times.
"To be spoken to like that would be distressing, let alone by your own child.
"You must stay away from using illegal drugs."