A serial domestic abuser who fled from police through a window has been told he will not face jail after a sheriff deemed it “too easy” for him.
Craig Jackson, whose previous convictions relating to his now former partner have landed him in prison in the past, has been placed on curfew and ordered not to approach the woman after he admitted assaulting her.
His sentence was deferred until September 17 for reports.
Sheriff Way warned Jackson, 22, that this was his “last chance” to tackle his alcohol issues.
Dundee Sheriff Court heard Jackson, his then partner and others were at a flat on Balmoral Terrace at around 1am on August 19 when an argument broke out over money.
Jackson punched the woman on the head, knocking her to the ground.
She dialled 999 but was unable to speak and police went to the property after receiving a silent phone call.
The court heard officers found the “upset” woman in the common close, while Jackson left through a window.
Jackson’s solicitor said his client, of Fintryside, had drunk a “considerable amount” of alcohol but accepted “full responsibility” for his actions.
Sheriff Way said: “The maximum sentence I can give is eight months and it seems that custody would almost be too easy.
“I’m going to give him a last chance to tackle his drink problem or he will find himself prosecuted on indictment and may then spend years in prison.”
Jackson was ordered to stay home between 8pm and 7am and to keep away from Balmoral Terrace. He is also banned from contacting his ex.
