A MAN with a bad record for domestic violence was arrested again, after three police call-outs to incidents with his most recent partner, earlier this year.
Concern was raised by neighbours who overheard arguments, ‘bumps’ and apparent violent confrontations from the flat shared by Andrew Sheehan and his partner, in Durham.
In response, police went to the address on January 8, 19 and 26, twice using body-worn cameras to film Sheehan’s partner with injuries including a bloodied mouth and extensive bruising.
Joanne Kidd, prosecuting, told Durham Crown Court that although his partner did not support police action, Sheehan was arrested on February 14, charged with three counts of assault causing actual bodily harm and remanded in custody.
Appearing via video link from nearby Durham Prison, the 33-year-old defendant, of Rydal Road, Gosforth, admitted three counts of the slightly lesser offence of assault by beating.
Those pleas were “accepted” by the Crown and sentence was adjourned for preparation of probation reports on Sheehan.
The court heard he has previous convictions for violence and breaching restraining orders involving past partners.
Judge James Adkin told Sheehan’s counsel, Liam O’Brien, he would impose a 12-month community order, but with a requirement to complete both a 30-day programme to address his “disgraceful and shameful” behaviour in relationships and 150 hours’ unpaid work.
The judge added that he wants updated reports every six weeks to assess Sheehan’s compliance with the order.
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