South Yorkshire thug punched his ex-partner's mother

Sheffield Magistrates’ Court heard on August 20 how Samuel Buttery, aged 20, of East End Crescent, Royston, Barnsley, had visited his ex-partner’s mother’s home in Barnsley on April 24 when he committed the offences.

Deputy District Judge Phillip Houlden said the defendant was in drink and struck the complainant in the face after he was refused entry and he damaged a fence and a gate in the garden.

The complainant conceded that at some point during the altercation she hit Buttery back, according to Deputy District Judge Houlden.

In a victim personal statement, the complainant stated that she did not feel safe in her home and she was worried because she described the defendant as unpredictable.

Buttery pleaded guilty to assault by beating and to causing criminal damage to a garden gate and a fence.

Clarkson Baptiste, defending, said Buttery takes medication for depression and anxiety and the combination mixed with alcohol was not good for his behaviour.

Mr Baptiste added that Buttery is thoroughly sorry and realises his behaviour must improve.

The defendant has been working without pay to learn a trade, according to Mr Baptiste, and matters have healed between himself and his partner and her mother.

Deputy District Judge Houlden sentenced Buttery to a 28-day community order with a 28-day electronically tagged curfew.

Buttery was also ordered to pay £85 costs and a £95 victim surcharge.