Woman breaks into ex's house after drinking about 20 cans of beer
Melissa Bavington-Love broke into her ex-partner's home after drinking alcohol. She was shouting for her laminator.
Melissa Bavington-Love, 32, attended a concert on May 28, 2026. She drank about 20 cans of alcohol.
She and three others broke into her ex-partner's home in Golden Square, Bendigo. She smashed the lounge window and yelled: "I want my laminator."
The group damaged windows and a television. They left at 12.24am.
A neighbour called police. Bavington-Love pleaded guilty to criminal damage and trespass.
Her lawyer told the court she has an intellectual disability with major life-skills gaps. This was recently diagnosed.
The magistrate gave her a community corrections order. It includes alcohol help, therapy, and 80 hours of community work.
The magistrate told her: "What I want you to not do is drink 20 cans in one night."
- 32 years old
- Age
- May 28, 2026
- Incident date
- About 20 cans
- Alcohol consumed that night
- 80 hours
- Community work requirement
Why it mattersUntreated intellectual disability and heavy drinking can lead to criminal acts. Courts look at mental health when they decide sentences.
AustraliaThe sentencing reflects Victoria's approach to community-based corrections for offenders with diagnosed cognitive disabilities and addiction issues.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 23 h ago
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