A BUDDING Border musician was left so incensed after finding his best friend in bed with his ex-girlfriend he cracked the man with a concrete rake and punched the woman in the head.
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Jayden Terrence Zago, 24, had been in a relationship with the victim for seven years.
They had separated for only a week and appeared to be on good terms when Zago attended her sister’s home on March 19.
He had arrived to get some belongings, but instead found the woman in bed with his best mate.
Zago got into an altercation with his friend and lent over the man before punching his former partner in the side of her face.
It would appear you’ve not only lost your former partner, but your best friend as well
- Magistrate Tony Murray
Another friend who had attended the home with him intervened and removed Zago from the home.
But he re-entered a short time later carrying a concreting rake before hitting his best mate.
He was again removed and pushed a kitchen chair on his way out, causing a hole in a wall, and also punched a hole in a garage door.
He attended Albury police station the following day but declined to be interviewed.
Albury Local Court last week heard the aggression had been out of character for Zago, who plays in bands and wants to become a professional musician.
He has recently played gigs in Sydney and Melbourne and supported Parkway Drive last month.
The court heard he hasn’t had any contact with the woman since the incident.
Magistrate Tony Murray said any relationship breakdown was difficult, especially when a former partner was found in a “compromising position” with a friend.
“It would appear you’ve not only lost your former partner, but your best friend as well,” he said.
Mr Murray noted both of the victims were free to associate with whoever they wanted.
Defence lawyer Mark Cronin said the incident had involved an unfortunate set of circumstances.
Zago, a cabinetmaker by trade, has sought counselling following the assault.
The homeowner also sought $500 in compensation to repair damage to the home.
Mr Murray fined Zago and placed him on an 18-month good behaviour bond.