A MAN who smashed his partner’s phone during a ‘heated argument’ over dating apps has been fined.

Jason Bates, 23, was at his partner’s address on June 10 when he found an old mobile phone, Workington Magistrates’ Court heard.

Pamela Fee, prosecuting, said the defendant found dating apps on the phone which caused him to become angry. He confronted the victim and there was a ‘heated argument’.

Bates threw the phone with force, causing the screen to shatter. He later admitted to police that he had caused damage to the phone.

He said he had confronted his partner about cheating which led to an argument. He said he had thrown the phone on the floor.

The victim later retracted his statement.

Bates, of Pearl Road, Salterbeck, Workington, pleaded guilty to criminal damage under £5,000.

The defendant, who was not legally represented in court, said: “We have reconciled and I have reimbursed him for the phone.

“I regret my actions. I only acted out of frustration. It’s not my normal character. I have reacted stupidly. This is not my normal day-to-day behaviour.”

Bates was fined £40. He was ordered to pay £85 costs and a £16 victim surcharge.