Arnold David Lawrence Williams: Morawa man gets 10 months jail for drunken home attack on partner

A Mid West man has been jailed for 10 months after an “unprovoked” vicious assault on his partner in the bathroom of a Morawa home.

Arnold David Lawrence Williams appeared in Geraldton Magistrate’s Court last week and pleaded guilty to aggravated unlawful assault causing bodily harm.

Prosecutor Sgt Beau Jones told the court the “length and severity” of the attack was deserving of jail, asking the court to send a message to the community.

“This is an extremely serious example of domestic violence,” he said. “As you’re well aware, domestic violence is a prevalent issue in our community, and the Government is trying to control it.”

Williams’ lawyer, Veronica Randell, told the court he had fallen back into “bad habits” with alcohol and was very drunk when he attacked the woman on May 15.

She said the 29-year-old had previously had a methamphetamine problem but had been clean for five years and “wanted to continue on the path he was on”.

“He’s turned his life around and has a contract coming up to work in the mines,” she said. “He accepts the relationship may not continue after this.”

Williams was sentenced to a 10-month jail term by Magistrate Chris Miocevich, who said the assault was too serious for him not to be jailed.

“It was numerous punches to the head and body,” he said.

“You were kicking her when she was down and in the shower. I’ve got to send the message domestic violence is not going to be tolerated.”