A thug has been jailed for 15 months after battering a man on the head with a torch in Wishaw. Hamilton Sheriff Court heard that William Milligan carried out the attack after seeing his friend involved in an argument in Laurel Drive.
Attack Details
The court was told that the victim was picking up rubbish in his garden when Stuart Collins, 46, approached and an argument began. Collins produced a hammer, raised it over his head, and shouted: "You're getting this. I'll be coming through your door." Milligan then got out of a car, approached the victim, and struck him repeatedly on the head with a torch, knocking him to the ground.
Two men ran to assist the injured man, using towels to stem the flow of blood. They also called for an ambulance. Collins then shouted towards them: "You better have your doors locked because we're coming through them."
Injuries and Arrest
The victim was taken to hospital, where doctors found a 10cm cut to the top of his head, which was closed with staples. Both accused were arrested. Milligan made no comment, while Collins told police he had been threatened and someone was trying to hit him.
Court Proceedings
Milligan, 40, admitted assaulting the victim to his severe injury on February 18 this year while on bail for four other matters. Defence lawyer Matthew McGovern said Milligan "reacted foolishly," thinking Collins was in danger. The solicitor added: "My client has a quite lengthy record but it's somewhat limited in relation to violence. He has had problems with drugs and alcohol. There are also issues with his mental health including post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression."
Jailing Milligan, Sheriff Kevin McCallum KC told him: "This is your third conviction for assault and your record generally is bad. I'm quite satisfied custody is the only realistic option."
Sentence on Collins, of Beech Grove, Wishaw, was deferred until next month for background reports.
