Man Ordered to Abstain from Alcohol Over Christmas Period to Avoid Imprisonment

An individual who assaulted his partner and caused damage to her residence during an alcohol-fueled incident has received a caution against consuming alcohol throughout the Christmas period, with the potential consequence of incarceration. Stephen Auton, aged 36, residing in Sunderland, struck his long-term partner of five years in the face before proceeding to damage kitchen units and a television set in January, according to proceedings at Newcastle Crown Court. Judge Andrew Stubbs KC identified alcohol as Auton’s core issue, noting that after being held on remand at HMP Durham since the night of the violent incident, Auton would be granted a “chance” instead of remaining incarcerated. Auton, who pleaded guilty to charges of assault and criminal damage, was placed under a two-year community order. This order prohibits him from consuming alcohol for a minimum of 100 days and mandates monitoring via an alcohol-detection device. “You’re coming out before Christmas and there will be a massive temptation to drink,” the judge informed Auton, further stating that alcohol consumption would constitute a breach of the order and result in his return to court. Testimony presented to the court indicated that Auton, residing at Yewtree Avenue, and the woman had been out with companions on 28 January. Upon their return home, he struck her, resulting in cuts to her nose. While she sought refuge at a neighbour’s residence to contact the police, Auton proceeded to vandalize her home, prosecutor Vincent Ward stated. A brief statement read aloud in court from the woman expressed her fear that Auton intended to kill her. Judge Stubbs characterized the assault as a “really nasty” attack, one that typically warrants a prison sentence. However, given that Auton had already served a significant period in prison, during which he received assistance for alcohol addiction, the judge declared he would be released immediately with a “package of help” designed to maintain his sobriety. “If you can address your drinking problem, I’m pretty confident you can stay out of trouble,” Judge Stubbs remarked, concluding: “I’m giving you the chance to make those choices.” Auton conveyed to the court: “Alcohol has ruined my life, I’m determined to stay away from it totally.” Additionally, a restraining order was issued, prohibiting Auton from contacting the woman or visiting her address for a duration of five years. For those impacted by the subjects discussed in this report, assistance and support can be accessed through the BBC Action Line. Stay updated with BBC Sunderland on X, Facebook, Nextdoor, and Instagram. Submit your story concepts to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.