A NEWTOWN man who spat at his ex-partner and pushed her into a bush while their child was in a pushchair, in a row over money, has been sentenced after initially denying assault.
Caleb Kennedy, 27, pleaded guilty to assault on the morning of his scheduled trial last month.
Welshpool Magistrates’ Court heard on Tuesday, July 9, that the incident took place on Dolafon Terrace, Newtown, on October 10 last year, after Kennedy met his former partner while she was walking with the couple’s son.
Prosecutor Rebecca Kuipers said: “Ms Jones is the defendant’s ex-partner. It was 11.15am on October 10 and she was walking with her child in the pushchair, when she saw the defendant walking towards her.
OTHER NEWS:
- A470 in Powys town to be closed in both directions for the next two nights
- Water bills set to soar - here's how it will affect Powys suppliers
- Driver arrested and drugs seized from passenger after illegal off-road reports
“He demanded his bank card and there was an argument about money. She said he spat in her face, so she spat back.
“He then dragged her across the road by her arms and pushed her into a bush. A witness came to her assistance and told him to let her go.”
In a victim impact statement provided by Ms Jones, she said: “I feel violated and humiliated, I’m worried about the psychological and emotional impact on our son. I want him out of my life.”
Ms Kuipers said there had initially been a not guilty plea but that Kennedy changed the plea on the morning of his trial. She added that the victim had requested a restraining order.
Acting for Kennedy, of Maes Dulais, Newtown, Rob Hanratty said: “There was one contentious issue. It was always Caleb’s case that she spat at him first.
“In fact, the independent witness only saw her spit at him. He accepts he overacted and pushed her.”
Mr Hanratty said Kennedy was a part-time bar worker but is hopeful of getting a full-time job at a local food outlet.
Magistrates handed Kennedy a community order which will last for two years. As part of this he will undertake 10 rehabilitation activity days and complete 100 hours of unpaid work.
He was ordered to pay costs of £250 and a £114 surcharge. They granted the restraining order, which will also be in place for 2 years.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here