A Portadown man who assaulted his child’s mother over contact has been sentenced to 160 hours of community service.
The district judge told the 27-year-old: “Domestic violence is a very serious matter and it will have an impact on your contact with your child.”
Lewis Lucas, of Churchill Park, pleaded guilty to common assault at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
It was heard that on April 25, police were called to a report of a domestic incident at Ballyoran Park in Portadown.
The injured party said her ex-partner – the defendant – had come to her home to speak to her. He appeared aggressive and punched a tree outside her property.
As she came to the door the defendant stepped into the house and pushed her with his shoulder.
This left the injured party very afraid. Her new partner tried to intervene but the defendant still tried to get to her.
Lucas was subsequently arrested and cautioned.
When interviewed about the incident he made no comment.
Defence counsel stated: “Mr Lucas instructs he sent a number of texts regarding access to their child but he accepts he dealt with it in the wrong way.
“He had consumed alcohol, he knows this was an inappropriate action and he has now instructed his solicitor.”
He added: “This was completely out of character; he has nothing on his record except for a caution.
“He consents to both probation and community service.”
District Judge Bernie Kelly stated: “Domestic violence is a very serious matter and it will have an impact on your contact with your child.”
Lucas was sentenced to 160 hours of community service and was made subject of a three-year restraining order.
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