A MOUNT Gambier man who assaulted his own sister by grabbing her neck with two hands and throwing her to the ground has been given the benefit of a suspended sentence.
Thomas Beresford Zeverona, 26, appeared in the Mount Gambier Magistrates Court last week to be sentenced for one count of basic assault.
The prosecution said the incident occurred on December 9 at around 3.30pm when the victim received a call from Zeverona.
Zverona then spotted the victim’s car on Jubilee Highway and the pair pulled over.
They became involved in a “yelling match” before the victim suggested it was not an appropriate place to be having the argument and they should go to her house.
When they returned to the victim’s home, Zverona got out of the car and grabbed the victim by the neck before throwing her to the ground.
The victim hit her head on the ground, causing a small lump.
The incident was reported to police and Zverona was arrested.
When he was questioned by police, he admitted committing the assault and stated he had anger issues.
The defendant’s lawyer said his client was aware of his reckless actions and was remorseful.
Zverona was placed on a treatment intervention court program to deal with his underlying issues six months ago.
Magistrate Teresa Anderson said he had done very well on the program and demonstrated that he wanted to change his behaviour.
Despite this, Magistrate Anderson said the offending was still very serious.
“Being throttled by somebody can be a very frightening experience,” Magistrate Anderson said.
“The victim is scared of a repeat because this offending was so unexpected.”
Taking all things into account, Magistrate Anderson sentenced the defendant to 12 weeks imprisonment, but found it appropriate to suspend the sentence.
Citing the defendant’s commitment to rehabilitation and no prior violent history, she suspended the sentence on Zeverona entering a 12-month, $500, good behaviour bond.
