A MAN who forced entry into his ex’s home has been given “one last chance” to get his drinking under control.

David Thornton appeared at Dumbarton Sheriff Court on October 26 for sentencing on a number of offences where he acted in a threatening or abusive manner over the past year.

Fiscal depute Heather Galbraith told the hearing that at around 1pm on December 11, 2020 that Thornton’s former partner was in her home address on Cardross Road in Dumbarton with both doors locked and secured.

Thornton attempted to enter the front door without knocking. He then tried to force open the door causing her to be scared “of what would happen if she didn’t allow access to the house”.

Once the 56-year-old entered the house he began shouting and stomping around the property.

She then tried to flee and flagged down a person driving by who agreed to drive her to a place of safety.

Police attended the address and arrested the accused who was then released on an undertaking in which he was not to contact his ex.

However, between January 20 and 21 of this year the victim received communication from Thornton, but declined to tell police what it was.

The next day Thornton went back to her home and an argument ensued. His partner left again, but then received several calls and voicemails which she refused to answer.

When she went back to her property with her daughter she was advised to contact the police.

His defence solicitor Gail Campbell said: “He has led a very law-abiding and successful life. He is out of the relationship and that it is well and truly over. It seems to be the situation where both parties at certain times have had difficulties.”

Sheriff Maxwell Hendry interrupted and said: “He was the one acting in a frightful and controlling fashion.”

Turning to Thornton, the sheriff said: “I could send you to prison for quite a number of months. I am going to give you one last chance to demonstrate that you can get your drinking under control and that you can comply with the criminal law.”

The sheriff handed Thornton, of Dumbarton Road, Dalmuir, a community payback order for 18 months under supervision with a conduct requirement for alcohol counselling.

He also imposed 175 of unpaid hours of work in the community.