Former soldier spared jail over attack

A FORMER soldier who ‘went berserk’ and brutally attacked his girlfriend has walked free from court.

Cameron Slessor, 34, grabbed the victim by the throat and punched her during the attack in Macclesfield on May 10.

The incident happened while he was on bail for damaging the victim’s car after an alcohol-fuelled row on February 21.

At Macclesfield magistrates’ court, Slessor, of Antrobus Street, Congleton, admitted criminal damage and resisting a police constable.

He was found guilty after trial of criminal damage and assault by beating.

Debbie Byrne, prosecuting, said: “At the time of the offences in February the couple had been in a relationship for seven months.

“There had been a number of previous incidents involving the police.

“They had been out for a few drinks and returned home. He continued drinking and they got into a verbal argument.

“He then started to damage items.

“She went to call the police but he grabbed the phone and snapped it in half.

“He also caused damage to her car by kicking the lights and the car doors of the Ford Fiesta.

“Police arrived and had to use leg and hand restraints on the defendant. While he was lying on the floor the victim kicked him in the stomach. She was arrested and cautioned.

“A witness James Caulley said he heard aggressive shouting from the defendant before he kicked the car.”

“The second incident in May involved an argument during which the defendant went berserk and grabbed the victim around the throat and punched her. He also damaged wooden spindles on the stairs.”

Peter Casson, defending, said: “The couple will be getting back together when these matters conclude.

“The defendant has been diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder from his time serving in the British Army.

“He is getting counselling help from a military organisation.

“He has anger management issues.”

Sentencing, Chair of the bench, Margaret Smith, said: “We have heard a catalogue of unacceptable and inexcusable behaviour.”

Slessor was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison suspended for two years.

He was ordered to serve a four month curfew from 7pm to 7am.