The psychologist who analysed a man convicted of aggravated burglary confirmed he had problems that, if treated, could assist with his rehabilitation.

The psychologist, who cannot be named, wrote a 19-page social inquiry report on Shelton Baker, 35, after his conviction in February.

She said that Baker showed “elevated” behaviours consistent with post-traumatic stress.

When asked if probation could help, she said: “As long as Mr Baker applies himself, he could benefit.”

The court earlier heard that Baker approached a woman outside her apartment on Princess Street in Hamilton and held a knife to her neck while demanding to be let in.

He followed the woman into her apartment but saw another person inside and left.

The incident happened on October 26, 2022.

Jonathan White, for the defence, argued on August 13 that his client might have psychological problems and requested his social inquiry report writer appear before the court to expand on her findings.

The psychologist said yesterday that Baker struggled with interpersonal relationships and had an “avoidant” personality ‒ a condition marked by excessive anxiety.

She told the court that Baker could have developed these avoidant behaviours at any point in his life.

The psychologist added that the bold nature of the crime seemed out of character for him.

When Mr White asked if these traits could have played a role in Baker committing the offence, she said: “Potentially.”

She added: “Because it’s random and strange, it’s possible that he could have been under the influence.”

The psychologist said that individualised therapy with someone Baker trusted could help, adding that he would need “multiple sources of support”.

She said that this therapy would take between 12 and 18 months.

The psychologist said that much of this court-mandated probation would be a mix of cognitive behavioural therapy and life skills.

She explained: “We don’t ‘fix’ people, we just give them skills.

“It’s about helping him integrate into the community.”

The psychologist added that the therapy would help him recognise his triggers and find ways to avoid or combat them.

She warned that, in the past, Baker seemed uncooperative and believed he had nothing to gain from assistance.

However, she added that Baker ended their session by saying he might benefit.

She said: “If he doesn’t learn more skills to help himself, he’s at a risk of reoffending.”

Matthew Frick, for the Crown, previously called for an “immediate custodial sentence” between eight and nine years.

Mr White suggested four to six years of jail time, followed by probation.

Puisne Judge Alan Richards adjourned the case until September 12 for sentencing and remanded Baker in custody.

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