Addict hit girlfriend with claw hammer
9:02am Friday 18th January 2013 in News
A LIGHTER-fuel addict hit his girlfriend in the face with claw hammer during a row, a court heard.
Scott Coop, aged 43, of Horsa Street, Tonge Moor, was drinking at home with Avril Williams, his partner of eight months, on August 23, last year, Bolton Crown Court was told yesterday.
An argument broke out which led to a scuffle, and Coop left before returning with a claw hammer.
David Lees, prosecuting, said: “The defendant used the claw hammer to strike the television.
“He also hit his partner in the face causing damage to her right eye.
“He apologised for what he had done and she went to hospital for treatment.”
Coop was arrested and, at an earlier hearing, pleaded guilty to assault.
The court heard he had previous convictions for criminal damage, battery and assault and had once smashed a van window while high on butane gas, which is used for lighter fuel.
Judge Timothy Clayson said: “This man has a gross alcohol and drugs problem and his life is dominated by these features.
“He is entirely inconsistent and aggressive in relation to his partner, who could have easily fallen on the ground and hit her head and been seriously hurt, if not worse, by this incident.”
Mark Friend, defending, said: “He recognises the need for change and is willing to take those steps.”
Judge Clayson ordered Coop to observe a 12-month supervision order and gave him a 12-month prison sentence suspended for 18 months.
