A MAN from Northwich has been handed a community order and a curfew after assaulting his partner by placing her in a headlock.

Brandon Lee Halfpenny appeared in Crewe Magistrates' Court today, Monday (August 16), after pleading guilty to assault and criminal damage in Crewe.

The 23-year-old, who informed the court he would be staying in Astbury Drive in Barnton for his curfew, committed the offences in January.

The court accepted a basis of plea on the facts that Halfpenny had been assaulted by the complainant first – but his subsequent actions went beyond the realms of self defence.

Prosecutor Debbie Byrne said Halfpenny and the complainant had been in a relationship at the time of the offence and he had moved in with her.

This relationship has since ended.

She said the complainant had been completing her online studies at a desk in the living room when Halfpenny tried to talk to her.

She was not listening because she was doing her studies.

The court heard how Halfpenny became frustrated, which increased when he asked if the light could be switched off but the complainant said no.

Ms Byrne said Halfpenny then 'got up and punched the laptop screen' and when the complainant pushed him away he squeezed her in a headlock.

She suffered bruising as a result.

Scott Phillips, defending, said Halfpenny had been assaulted first but then had 'gone too far'.

He added that doctors believe he suffers from epilepsy and he is in the process of being diagnosed.

Halfpenny has no previous convictions.

He was handed a 24-month community order with 35 rehabilitation activity requirement days on the building better relationships programme.

Halfpenny must also serve a three-month curfew, is subject to a restraining order for two years and must pay £400 in compensation.