Man receives alcohol ban and community order after assault, warned against Christmas drinking

An individual who assaulted his girlfriend and caused damage to her residence during an alcohol-fueled incident has been cautioned against consuming alcohol during the Christmas period, with the potential consequence of imprisonment. Stephen Auton, aged 36, of Sunderland, assaulted his partner of five years by punching her in the face before damaging 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, stating that after being held on remand at HMP Durham since 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 issued 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 explaining that alcohol consumption would constitute a breach of the order and result in his return to court. The court was informed that Auton, residing at Yewtree Avenue, and the woman had been out with friends on 28 January. Upon their return home, he punched her, resulting in cuts to her nose. While she sought refuge at a neighbour’s house to contact the police, Auton proceeded to damage her home, according to prosecutor Vincent Ward. A brief statement read aloud in court conveyed the woman’s fear that Auton would kill her. Judge Stubbs described the assault as a “really nasty” attack, which would typically warrant a prison sentence. However, given that Auton had already spent a considerable period in prison, during which he received assistance for alcohol addiction, the judge stated 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, further stating: “I’m giving you the chance to make those choices.” Auton informed 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 themes presented in this report, assistance and support are accessible through the BBC Action Line. BBC Sunderland can be followed on X, Facebook, Nextdoor, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted 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.