An unpaid meal and constant harassment of his estranged wife cost a man his freedom yesterday in Magistrates' Court.

Edmund J. Johnson, 33, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to attaining credit by false pretence on the afternoon of June 6.

Senior Magistrate Will Francis was told that Johnson ordered a steak, three beers, and three dark and stormy's from The Porch restaurant at Front Street.

But when it came time to pay the bill, Johnson told the manager to call the Police because he had no money.

Police prosecutor Sgt. Anthony Mouchette said Police were called and Johnson replied that he wanted "to be locked up''. He was then arrested and charged.

Yesterday, Johnson also pleaded guilty to assault, causing wilful and unlawful damage and two counts of unlawful entry.

Sgt. Mouchette told the court that Johnson's estranged wife found him at her home around 4.30 p.m. on April 12. After making a sandwich for himself, he slapped her and then left.

On May 5, Johnson entered the Harrington Sound Road residence by force, despite a bail condition that he stay away.

Sgt. Mouchette said Johnson's estranged wife and their five-year-old son hid in the bathroom during the second break-in.

It was at that time that Johnson caused $1,440 damaged her car, he added.

Police arrived to find Johnson sitting on the wall across from Woody's Cafe.

When they approached him he said: "I know you came to get me.

"I just f**ked up her car, I'm going to f**k her up if she don't give me my money.'' Sgt. Mouchette said he was then arrested and taken to Hamilton Police Station where he admitted damaging the car.

Yesterday Johnson attempted to explain his "situation'' with his wife.

"We've had some real up and down times but we seem to get over it,'' he said.

"The courts always get between us before we come to an understanding.'' But Mr. Francis pointed out to Johnson that the court had to become involved "for your wife's protection''.

Johnson responded: "My wife's a big strong woman, have you got a look at her? Do you know how many times she had me in a head lock? "But I'm not going to run her down, she's still my wife.'' Mr. Francis sentenced Johnson to three months in prison for stealing the steak, seven months on each of the April 12 incident and another seven months for the May 5 charges. The sentences are to run concurrently.