An attempt to recoup a $500 debt that ultimately led to a Lavington man committing assault won't be finalised in the courts.
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That is the result of what magistrate Richard Funston said was a "rare" decision by him to instead divert the matter to mental health professionals.
Doug Peter Loughman readily admitted to the assault when he fronted Albury Local Court this week.
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But his defence argued that it would be in Loughman's best interests to have him dealt with through treatment, as it would be for the wider community.
That would be through Section 32 of the NSW Mental Health Act.
Loughman, 49, of Centaur Road, pleaded guilty back on June 29.
"I'm going to stick my neck out and grant this Section 32," Mr Funston told Loughman, who was supported in court by his daughter.
"I'm impressed with the detailed (mental health) treatment plan."
Mr Funston said the "public interest" would be better served by Loughman, who was booked in for a counselling session soon after his court appearance, not being dealt with through the judicial system.
"And you will be better served."
The court was told that Loughman suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health issues, but had made a concerted effort to address his problems.
Mr Funston told Loughman that "sometimes, the reality is you've got to let a debt go".
Loughman lent the money in mid-2018 and on September 7, 2019, drove to the victim's house with a friend.
The victim, then 24, had only just arrived home.
Loughman approached, they got into a heated argument and he pushed the victim.
They then got into a scuffle.
