Jonathan Weallans, 47, has admitted assaulting his partner on a busy thoroughfare in Coatbridge in broad daylight. The attack was witnessed by shocked passers-by, who rushed to help the woman and restrained Weallans until police arrived.
Court Hearing and Background
Weallans appeared at Airdrie Sheriff Court and admitted the assault, which took place in Glasgow Road on April 14 last year. The court heard the couple had a minor argument at their home around 2pm. Weallans left, saying he was going to buy drugs, but his partner followed in a bid to stop him.
She then called the police, asking for help as she believed Weallans was having "a mental health episode". As the couple reached a roundabout near Drumpellier Business Park, Weallans attacked the woman.
Prosecution Details
Flora McCamley, prosecuting, said: "He seized her by the neck and compressed it. This was observed by members of the public who were passing by, both on foot and in vehicles."
"When police officers arrived Weallans was being restrained by members of the public. He appeared to be agitated and intoxicated." The woman appeared frightened but did not require medical attention.
Previous Convictions and Sentencing
Weallans, currently of High Street, Newarthill, admitted previous convictions. In March he was handed a three-year community payback order for a separate offence, and last month he got 80 hours of unpaid work in another case.
Sentence was deferred for background reports and an electronic tagging order assessment. A bail condition preventing contact with his partner has been lifted, and lawyer Rowan Myles said they have been seeing each other "almost daily". The court heard the victim does not want a non-harassment order.
