HIGH COURT SPARES MAN JAIL FOR CHRISTMAS TREE ATTACK IN DOMESTIC ABUSE CASE
A man accused of attacking his former partner with a Christmas tree in a prolonged campaign of violence spanning over five years has received a non-custodial sentence.
Mark Allsopp, aged 52 from Nairn, was convicted at the High Court in Glasgow after a trial in Aberdeen.
The court found him guilty of assaulting the woman between January 2013 and April 2018 at locations in Nairn.
Evidence included him "striking her on the body with an artificial Christmas tree," prosecutors stated.
Judge Graham Buchanan ordered Allsopp to complete 180 hours of unpaid work and remain under supervision for 18 months.
Allsopp maintained his innocence, claiming he had merely thrown the tree "in the direction" of his ex.
During the sentencing, Judge Buchanan expressed concern over Allsopp's behavior, indicating that offenses were "concerning" because he appeared to act in a controlling manner and did not take responsibility.
The judge considered a prison sentence but ultimately opted for a community payback order, emphasizing the importance of addressing his conduct without jail.
The case has been tagged under domestic abuse and crime.
Court Outcome
Conviction and Sentencing Details
Sentenced
Detected legal outcome
is former partner with a Christmas tree in a prolonged campaign of violence spanning over five years has received a non-custodial sentence. Mark Allsopp, aged 52 from Nairn, was convicted at the High Court in Glasgow after a trial in Abe...
Community order
18 months
Judge Graham Buchanan ordered Allsopp to complete 180 hours of unpaid work and remain under supervision for 18 months
Community order
The judge considered a prison sentence but ultimately opted for a community payback order, emphasizing the importance of addressing his conduct without jail