Dunedin Man Sentenced After Violent Obsession with Ex-Partner

A man from Dunedin has been sentenced to 13 months in prison following a series of violent incidents involving his former partner. Nico Erik Bloemsaat, 33, appeared in the Dunedin District Court where he admitted to multiple breaches of a protection order, as well as charges of intentional damage and unlawfully entering a property. His actions, which occurred after a history of abuse, raised serious concerns about the safety of the victim.

During the court proceedings, Judge David Robinson emphasized the gravity of Bloemsaat’s previous conviction for strangulation, describing it as a “reliable predictor of a future fatal attack.” He expressed deep concern for the ongoing risk posed to the victim, indicating that such behavior could escalate further if not addressed.

Bloemsaat had been released from custody in August 2023 after serving a short sentence but wasted little time in re-establishing his obsession with his ex-partner. Within two weeks, he was reported to have loitered outside her workplace, inquiring with her colleagues about her whereabouts. When the victim became aware of his presence, she sought refuge in an office and contacted Bloemsaat’s mother for assistance. The situation escalated further when he left the premises upon learning police were on their way.

Later that day, Bloemsaat made 13 phone calls to the victim, violating the protection order once again. On September 1, 2023, he was charged with breaching the order; despite this, he continued his harassment. The court heard that he appeared at the victim’s home, banging on her door and shouting about her new partner being inside. This confrontation turned violent when Bloemsaat punched a window, causing damage and confronting the victim’s partner physically.

Counsel Sarah Cochrane highlighted that alcohol had played a significant role in Bloemsaat’s behavior throughout these incidents. She stated that he was committed to undergoing residential rehabilitation and acknowledged the necessity of never contacting his former partner again. Judge Robinson reiterated Bloemsaat’s own words, where he described himself as having “turned into a monster” while drinking alcohol. The judge stressed the urgent need for him to tackle his issues with alcohol to prevent further offenses.

The severity of Bloemsaat’s actions and his history of violence indicate a pressing need for intervention. Judge Robinson warned that any future offenses would result in longer prison sentences, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. The court’s actions reflect an ongoing commitment to safeguarding victims of domestic violence, highlighting the impact of alcohol on behavior and the need for rehabilitation.