A man has been ordered to get alcohol treatment after he got drunk and assaulted a woman he had only known for three hours.
Ryan Heaney, 30, admitted assaulting Charlotte Shand within a Barrhead property on January 12, 2020 – three hours after meeting her.
Heaney, who was described by Sheriff Brian Mohan as “Jekyll and Hyde” met Shand online and the pair agreed to get together at a party in Duncolm View on January 12.
Paisley Sheriff Court heard Heaney drank to excess, got drunk and attacked Ms Shand.
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The brute, who has a number or previous convictions, admitted assaulting Ms Shand by pushing her on the body, causing her to fall to the floor and then lean over her and place his hand around her neck and compress it.
Heaney also admitted to causing fear or alarm on the same date by repeatedly shouting, swearing and acting aggressively.
This offence was contrary to Section 38(1) Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2010, in terms of section 1 of the Abusive Behaviour and Sexual Harm (Scotland) Act 2016 that the aforesaid offence was aggravated by involving the abuse of a partner or ex-partner.
Defence agent Mr Young told the court Heaney “fully accepts responsibility” for the assault.
Mr Young added: “This was the first time Mr Heaney had ever met this person.
“He is making ongoing efforts to address the alcohol issues he has experienced in the last few years.
“He had got a hold of these issues, and had got an Honours degree in civil engineering, but at this time of the offence, alcohol had returned to play a damaging part in his life.”
On sentencing, Sheriff Brian Mohan said: “You’re a real Jekyll and Hyde.
“I’ve never seen a case where there’s been a domestic aggravation been applied so quickly. You had only met her three hours before you became aggressive.
“You met the complainer online, you went to her house and you got so drunk and committed these offences.
“It was a brief encounter that didn’t evolve into a relationship, so I don’t think it’s necessary to impose a non-harassment order.
“It’s clear drink is ruining your life, your relationships, your offending, your employment, your health and your family. If you don’t get a hold of this it’s going to get a lot worse.”
Sheriff Mohan ordered Heaney, of Budhill Avenue, Glasgow, to be under the supervision of the social work department for 18 months with the condition he undertakes alcohol treatment when directed.
A review hearing was set for November 23 and Heaney was ordained to appear.
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