A SPRINGDALE Heights man with several convictions involving assault was “throwing his life away” in jail, a magistrate said yesterday.
Patrick Mitchell punched and abused his former partner after taking drugs and drinking alcohol, which magistrate Megan Greenwood said played a part in the offending.
But Ms Greenwood told Mitchell: “It shows a fundamental disrespect for all women”.
Mitchell, 23, appeared in custody for sentencing in Albury Local Court on a charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
He injected an unknown substance and drank wine at a Springdale Heights house on January 29 last year before taunting his partner and standing over her.
He punched her with closed fists to the right side of her jaw and to her left eye.
She walked out of the house, but Mitchell punched her in the back several times. She walked to her mother’s house.
Her mother rang police about the assault.
Solicitor Dave Barron said Mitchell had moved on from the relationship which was volatile and counter-productive for both people.
Mr Barron said Mitchell had grown up in a household of violence and alcohol abuse.
He had a history of drug abuse, but was now free of any illegal substances after being in custody since September 2.
“While he is using substances, all bets are off. He wants to clean up his life,” Mr Barron said.
“He has recognised that domestic violence is not the way to go.”
Mr Barron said Mitchell wanted to attend drug rehabilitation when released from jail.
Ms Greenwood sentenced him to 12 months’ jail with a minimum of six months. He is eligible for release on August 7.