A Forfar man who punched and kicked his former partner has been spared jail.
James David Charles McVey, 26, lashed out following an argument between the pair which broke out just two weeks after their four-year relationship ended.
Forfar Sheriff Court was told McVey’s former partner was left with a large lump on her forehead after it was banged against a wall during the attack.
McVey, of Strathmore Avenue, previously admitted that on November 2 at Green Street, Forfar, he assaulted his former partner and repeatedly punched and kicked her on the body.
Depute fiscal Stewart Duncan said the pair were still living together at the time of the incident despite the break-up.
He said the argument broke out around 7pm and McVey punched his ex twice on the right arm.
She walked out of the property and contacted a friend by phone.
While she was talking to the friend, McVey demanded that she return to the house
“She refused and the accused grabbed her arm and started to pull her back towards the house,” said Mr Duncan.
The person on the other end of the phone heard what was happening and was so concerned that she called the police.
Mr Duncan said McVey then demanded his former partner come upstairs and when she refused he kicked her in the stomach and punched her to the body.
He then went upstairs and she fled the property.
McVey’s solicitor Brian Bell said the relationship was now over and his client accepted there was no chance that they would get back together.
He said: “The social work department clearly identifies issues that need to be addressed and they have been discussing matters with Mr McVey.
“There are anger management issues.”
Sheriff Jillian Martin-Brown said she was prepared to deal with the matter without sending McVey to jail.
He was ordered to carry out 65 hours of unpaid work in 12 months with a supervision requirement.
McVey must also go for sessions with the understanding relationships group as part of the requirement.
She said: “Although it’s a serious offence I consider there is an alternative to custody.”
