Geoffrey Alan Duggan: Geraldton man convicted of choking partner receives suspended prison sentence

A Geraldton man convicted of assaulting and choking his partner has been spared immediate jail time, receiving a suspended sentence instead. Geoffrey Alan Duggan, 41, appeared in Geraldton Magistrates Court on Monday for sentencing after being convicted in February of unlawful aggravated assault. Police told the court an argument between Duggan and his partner escalated to a point of him reaching across the table and grabbing her by the throat. Duggan’s lawyer told the court the relationship had been difficult for some time and his mental health had become unstable. Duggan had been diagnosed with ADHD back in 2009 and started having psychotic episodes after taking medication. He had been unable to work for a year due to an injury sustained playing sport, and the court was told about his rough upbringing. Both Duggan and his partner had drunk a 750ml bottle of bourbon each on the night of the assault. His partner was a tarot card reader and pressed him about believing there was another woman in his life. Police told the court: “(The) accused came around the table and forcefully grabbed her throat and forced her against the wall. “Their dog became aggressive so he let go and then grabbed her by the throat again and forced her to the back of the decking.” As the victim fled, Duggan threw a suitcase of her clothing off the balcony. The victim flagged down a motorist with several bruises to her arms, shoulders and chest and scratches on her throat. Magistrate Angus Hockton noted Duggan’s hardships, but said this was no light matter. “You had a hard childhood . . . I think it’s very important that you try and stay right with your mental health,” he said. “When we get to choking, it’s a serious matter.” Duggan has a supportive family situation and cares for his 17-year-old son. Mr Hockton stressed the importance of getting his mental health in order. “Sometimes with mental health, what might work with some people might not work for you, you need to keep on track with it,” he said. Duggan was given a nine-month imprisonment term, suspended for 12 months.