Caithness man warned to ‘say nothing’ as sheriff ponders sentence of repeat domestic abuser

A serial domestic abuse offender might avoid a jail sentence if he is assessed as suitable for a rehabilitation programme.

However, a sheriff told Jonathan Todd: “I would be perfectly entitled to send you to prison today... do you want me to do that?”

“Not at all,” replied the 27-year-old, whose latest offence involved him locking his former partner out in the cold at their then home in Sinclair Street, Halkirk, in adverse weather conditions on February 26.

Todd was charged with having behaved in a threatening or abusive manner, acting in an aggressive manner, and uttering abusive remarks. He pleaded guilty previously, but a not guilty plea to a further charge of having assaulted the woman was accepted by fiscal depute Ruairidh McAllister.

Sheriff Neil Wilson told Todd, now living at The Crescent, Glengolly: “You must realise what a serious situation you are in. This offence was your sixth conviction involving the same complainer in recent years.”

Todd attempted to say something from the dock but the sheriff cut him short, saying: “You would be well advised to say nothing, because anything you say will make matters worse.

“You will be assessed for your suitability for the Caledonian Programme to see if there is an alternative to sending you to prison.”

The programme provides an integrated approach to address domestic abuse perpetrated by men towards female partners or ex-partners.

Todd will return to court on July 9 to learn whether he will avoid a custodial sentence.