A KELTY man who put a cable around his partner's neck and threatened her has been sentenced to 150 hours of unpaid work.

James McHale, 30, of Seafar Drive, appeared for sentencing at Dunfermline Sheriff Court.

Defence solicitor Chris Sneddon said his client had "lost everything" as a result of his behaviour.

After trial McHale was found guilty of assaulting his partner at his home on August 5 last year by placing a cable around her neck while uttering threats of violence towards her.

Mr Sneddon said his client was clearly suffering from depression.

"Mr McHale had not realised until trial the effect his actions had on the complainer," he said.

"He became very upset when he realised this and saw the impact of his behaviour."

Mr Sneddon explained that a report by social workers had deemed McHale was not a risk to the public and described him as very remorseful.

He continued: "He has lost his job, future prospects, his relationship and his children – he has lost everything.

"It is clear that the impact of these events has been substantial and Mr McHale continues to see a nurse psychologist once a week to attempt to resolve his issues.

"He pretty much has been in constant employment throughout his adult life. However, he has not been working for the last two months."

Sheriff Charles Macnair told McHale: "I found you guilty at trial for an offence of domestic abuse, which involved placing a cable on your partner's neck.

"Placing anything around a person's neck is a serious matter.

"However, what I am proposing to do is to put you on a community payback order in two parts.

"I'll sentence you to two years of supervision and 150 hours of unpaid work."