Paisley Daily Express

Thug lashed out at woman three hours after they met for first time

Drunk brute turned nasty and attacked victim

- EMYLIE HOWIE

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.

The brute, who has a number of previous conviction­s, admitted assaulting Ms Shand by pushing her on the body, causing her to fall to the floor and then did 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.

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.

You met the complainer online, you went to her house, you got drunk and committed these offences

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Ryan Heaney appeared at Paisley Sheriff Court
Warning Ryan Heaney appeared at Paisley Sheriff Court

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