WILLIAM MCCLACKLAN SENTENCED AFTER VIOLENT OUTBURST IN COUNDON
| Red Rose Database
Coundon Domestic Abuser
William McClacklan, a man with a long history of violent behavior and domestic disturbances, is now behind bars following a recent incident fueled by alcohol and aggression. The 40-year-old resident of Cotswold Close, Coundon, appeared before Durham Crown Court via a video link from a nearby prison to face sentencing after admitting to charges of battery and criminal damage related to an assault on his former partner.
The court was informed that the incident took place on the night of May 14 this year, during a gathering at a friend’s house where McClacklan and the woman he had been in a relationship with for two years were drinking together. According to prosecutor Jordan Parkinson, tensions escalated around midnight when McClacklan began shouting and making accusations against the woman, creating a hostile environment. At that point, he had locked the door to prevent her from re-entering the house, leaving her outside in distress.
Following this, the woman decided to leave and went to her mother’s residence. Upon her arrival, she turned off her phone and went to sleep, seeking refuge from the turmoil. However, her peace was short-lived. McClacklan appeared at her mother’s address, shouting and demanding that she come outside to see him. When she finally opened the door, McClacklan forcibly grabbed her, pulling her towards him. This struggle caused her to fall down some steps, resulting in cuts and abrasions to her knees and face. During the altercation, her necklace was snapped, causing approximately £20 worth of damage.
The victim, understandably frightened, managed to get back to her feet and retreat into her mother’s house while McClacklan continued to shout derogatory and abusive language at her. In her victim impact statement, she expressed her fear and desire to never see him again, stating, “he has gone too far this time,” and expressing concern about what he might do next.
Following the incident, McClacklan was arrested but chose not to comment when questioned by police. It was revealed that he has a significant criminal record, with 53 convictions for 107 offenses, including multiple assaults. His history of violence and domestic disturbances is well-documented, and at the time of the latest incident, he was in breach of a suspended 12-week prison sentence handed down in June of the previous year. This sentence had not yet expired at the time of the assault.
During the court hearing, McClacklan’s defense lawyer, Duncan McReddie, acknowledged his client’s “unenviable record” but emphasized that McClacklan has been remanded in custody since May 16, meaning he has already served over three months in detention. The lawyer also highlighted that both parties were heavily intoxicated during the incident, which officers witnessed firsthand. McReddie expressed remorse, stating that McClacklan takes no pride in his behavior and is ashamed of his actions. He noted that when sober, his client behaves appropriately, but alcohol impairs his judgment and conduct.
Judge Sarah Mallett addressed McClacklan directly, emphasizing the need for intervention and supervision given his history. She pointed out that at 40 years old, he has a troubling record of violence, including domestic violence offenses. The judge acknowledged that McClacklan’s recent actions breached a suspended sentence order but also recognized his guilty plea and the time already served in custody. She sentenced him to 32 weeks in prison, a term that, considering his remand period, suggests he may be released soon. Additionally, the court imposed a restraining order preventing McClacklan from contacting or approaching the victim for the next five years, aiming to protect her from further harm.
The court was informed that the incident took place on the night of May 14 this year, during a gathering at a friend’s house where McClacklan and the woman he had been in a relationship with for two years were drinking together. According to prosecutor Jordan Parkinson, tensions escalated around midnight when McClacklan began shouting and making accusations against the woman, creating a hostile environment. At that point, he had locked the door to prevent her from re-entering the house, leaving her outside in distress.
Following this, the woman decided to leave and went to her mother’s residence. Upon her arrival, she turned off her phone and went to sleep, seeking refuge from the turmoil. However, her peace was short-lived. McClacklan appeared at her mother’s address, shouting and demanding that she come outside to see him. When she finally opened the door, McClacklan forcibly grabbed her, pulling her towards him. This struggle caused her to fall down some steps, resulting in cuts and abrasions to her knees and face. During the altercation, her necklace was snapped, causing approximately £20 worth of damage.
The victim, understandably frightened, managed to get back to her feet and retreat into her mother’s house while McClacklan continued to shout derogatory and abusive language at her. In her victim impact statement, she expressed her fear and desire to never see him again, stating, “he has gone too far this time,” and expressing concern about what he might do next.
Following the incident, McClacklan was arrested but chose not to comment when questioned by police. It was revealed that he has a significant criminal record, with 53 convictions for 107 offenses, including multiple assaults. His history of violence and domestic disturbances is well-documented, and at the time of the latest incident, he was in breach of a suspended 12-week prison sentence handed down in June of the previous year. This sentence had not yet expired at the time of the assault.
During the court hearing, McClacklan’s defense lawyer, Duncan McReddie, acknowledged his client’s “unenviable record” but emphasized that McClacklan has been remanded in custody since May 16, meaning he has already served over three months in detention. The lawyer also highlighted that both parties were heavily intoxicated during the incident, which officers witnessed firsthand. McReddie expressed remorse, stating that McClacklan takes no pride in his behavior and is ashamed of his actions. He noted that when sober, his client behaves appropriately, but alcohol impairs his judgment and conduct.
Judge Sarah Mallett addressed McClacklan directly, emphasizing the need for intervention and supervision given his history. She pointed out that at 40 years old, he has a troubling record of violence, including domestic violence offenses. The judge acknowledged that McClacklan’s recent actions breached a suspended sentence order but also recognized his guilty plea and the time already served in custody. She sentenced him to 32 weeks in prison, a term that, considering his remand period, suggests he may be released soon. Additionally, the court imposed a restraining order preventing McClacklan from contacting or approaching the victim for the next five years, aiming to protect her from further harm.