LIAM WHEELER – MIDDLETON/RHYL/SEDBERGH, WALES

Former soldier Liam Wheeler given suspended sentence after domestic assault

Former soldier Liam Wheeler has been handed a suspended prison sentence after assaulting his partner during an incident in Caernarfon.

The 29-year-old, of Jubilee Road, Middleton, admitted assault causing actual bodily harm (ABH) during a hearing at Caernarfon Crown Court relating to an attack that took place on January 7.

Prosecutors told the court the victim was left with injuries including black eyes and a swollen lip following the assault. During the incident Wheeler repeatedly struck her in the face, pinned her to the ground and kicked her.

It was also heard that Wheeler made threats during the confrontation before later going to the police to admit what he had done.

Although Wheeler ultimately pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm, he had originally been charged with several additional offences. These included assault by beating, Section 39 assault on a child, criminal damage, and threats to kill. Those further charges were allowed to lie on file after the guilty plea to the ABH offence.

Wheeler was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, meaning he could face jail if he breaches the terms of the order.

The court was told Wheeler had previously served 10 years in the Armed Forces but had struggled to readjust to civilian life.

During sentencing, the judge told Wheeler his behaviour had left him “in an absolute mess” and warned him that the case represented a turning point in his life.

As part of the sentence, Wheeler must also complete 20 days of rehabilitation activity. The judge warned that if he returns to court for breaching the order, the case will come back before her and the suspended sentence could be activated.