A MAN who "saw red" and punched his girlfriend in an argument over a mobile phone has been handed a community order.

Zak Willsmer, of Aled in Plas Madoc, appeared at Wrexham Magistrates Court on Tuesday for sentence.

The 31-year-old, formerly of The Meads in Weston Rhyn, had previously admitted offences of criminal damage and assault.

Justin Espie, prosecuting, told the court that both offences were committed against Willsmer's partner Tabitha Griffin on August 13 last year.

The defendant called the police at around 4pm on the day to report a domestic incident involving himself and the victim.

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When officers arrived, Ms Griffin told officers there had been an argument over a mobile phone and Willsmer had pinned her to her bed to get it from her.

He managed to snatch the device and began to walk downstairs with it.

When the victim followed and asked him to give it back, the defendant pushed her into the banister and hit her windpipe with his forearm, preventing her from breathing "for a split second."

When the victim asked for the phone again, Willsmer lurched and punched her to the upper arm, then the ribs.

No restraining order was requested and no visible injuries resulted from the incident.

Probation Officer Pamela Roberts said the defendant has "an addiction to cocaine," and had admitted to using drugs on the morning of the offence.

When the incident happened, he was "coming down."

Ms Roberts said: "He started using cocaine six or seven years ago on an experimental basis.

"He believes he does have problems managing his anger."

Ceri Lewis, defending, told the court: "I have represented him for a number of years back when he was a youth - I was disappointed to see him back before the court.

"And he's extremely disappointed in himself."

Ms Lewis said her client "saw red" during the altercation over the phone and is "ashamed of himself."

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She invited the court to impose a community order, adding: "He quite obviously does need some help."

District Judge Gwyn Jones told the defendant: "You have issues in managing your emotions.

"You shouldn't allow those emotions and your temper to get the better of you because it affects other people.

"We need to revisit some of the issues in your life to make sure you do not return back to this court."

Willsmer received an 18 month community order and must undertake 10 rehabilitation days, up to 35 days on a 'building better relationships' programme and a six month drug rehabilitation requirement.

He was ordered to pay £300 in compensation to the victim, as well as a £100 fine and £85 costs.