Easter Ross man avoids jail sentence at Inverness Sheriff Court after drunken bid to kick in partner’s door

A 47 year old Easter Ross man with a bad record for domestic offences has been ordered to carry out 180 hours of unpaid community work as an alternative to a custodial sentence.

Lee Blackburn of Kirkside, Alness appeared at Inverness Sheriff Court after previously admitting a charge of threatening or abusive behaviour against his partner in a house in Glendoe Terrace, Inverness.

The incident happened on November 11, 2023 when Blackburn told the woman he was going to the pub. But when he didn't return when he said he would, the woman sent him a message saying she was locking the doors and going to bed.

Fiscal depute Sharon Ralph said Blackburn did return but was heavily intoxicated and tried to force his way in by kicking the door,

"She repeatedly told him she wanted him to stop but he became increasingly agitated and aggressive. He struck the door window several times with his keys.

"She opened the door and told him to leave, he tried to get in but she pushed him out. The police were called and she asked officers to tell him to leave and that he could return in the morning when he was sober."

The court heard he did leave but returned a short time later and once again was abusive towards her.

Defence solicitor Graham Mann said: "There was no excuse for his behaviour. He has a long record which does him no favours but it is his intention for the relationship to continue."

Blackburn was also placed under two years of social work supervision by Sheriff Nigel Cooke.