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Man Who Attacked Pregnant Wife Spared Jail With Community Order

The judge said rehabilitation offered the best prospect of change.

Overview

  • Jason Withers, 36, received a community order with 45 rehabilitation activity days and must complete an accredited programme.
  • He pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm, three counts of common assault, and controlling and coercive behaviour.
  • The court heard he punched his partner in the stomach while she was expecting twins, left her with a black eye, and exerted control over her social media and finances.
  • Judge Richard McConaghy cited Withers’ crack-cocaine use and a poor attitude toward the victim, noting messages that showed threats and demands, and said the twins have since been born.
  • Withers initially denied the allegations after arrest, has five prior convictions including a 2022 stalking offence, and had already spent about 25 weeks in custody.