Thug admits to attacking girlfriend Gettler also turned on her brother but escapes jail

A Perth man with a history of violence turned on his girlfriend’s brother when he intervened during an argument at her flat.

Perth Sheriff Court was told that 30-year-old Colin Gettler had first attacked his girlfriend Kerry Gillies after he found messages on her phone.

And when Alastair Gillies went to her aid, he was kicked on the body and his breathing was restricted after he was put in a headlock.

The accused, said to be in an on-off relationship with the female for more than three years, had earlier pulled her off a sofa and wrestled with her as he tried to get her phone.

Gettler, of Bute Drive, North Muirton, admitted assaulting Ms Gillies and her brother at the flat they shared in Perth’s Gray Street on May 28 last year when he appeared on indictment at Perth Sheriff Court.

Part of the charge which alleged that he brandished a knife at the woman and then robbed her of a SIM card, internet hub and telephone was deleted.

Depute fiscal John Malpass revealed the accused has five previous convictions for violence and disorder.

He had been living with his girlfriend at the time.

About 10pm on the Friday evening, he started an argument with Kerry Gillies regarding messages found on her phone.

After Gettler had removed the SIM card from the phone, he walked into the kitchen - followed by his girlfriend.

He closed the door behind her but her brother heard her “distressed shouting” and went to her assistance.

Gettler then “reacted” to that and kicked him on the body, causing him to fall to the floor.

“The accused then locked Alastair’s head and neck between his knees, applying pressure and restricting his breathing for a short time during the struggle,” added the fiscal.

Neighbours, who had heard shouting and screaming, were concerned for the woman’s safety.

“They contacted the police and then went to the front door, banging loudly in an attempt to gain access to stop the ongoing disturbance,” added the fiscal.

The accused left the property but was traced two days later.

Solicitor John McLaughlin said although they were separated at the time Gettler didn’t believe the relationship was at an end.

“He didn’t react well and fully accepts that what he did was unacceptable.”

Gettler had a Community Payback Order imposed as a “direct alternative to custody.”

He will have to complete 200 hours of unpaid work in the next six months, be supervised for 18 months and take part in a Positive Relationships group work programme run by the social work department.