A drug addict who admitted assaulting his wife and son, slightly injuring the 11-year-old boy, was today granted bail for two separate incidents which took place earlier this week.

The 42-year old, who resides in Cospicua, was also charged with threatening his wife via mobile phone, causing her to fear violence and breaching the peace.

The court was told that the first incident took place early last Monday morning inside the family home in Senglea when the accused assaulted his wife and later also threatened her over the phone. On Tuesday evening, the accused was involved in another violent episode with his son.

The man, accompanied in the dock by his supportive brother, admitted to all the charges but insisted that his primary concern was to restore relations with his wife and children.

The court, presided by Magistrate Josette Demicoli, stated that in view of the nature of the case and upon agreement with all the parties involved, it was to put off judgment pending feedback on the personal progress of the accused.

Before deciding upon the final punishment, the court wanted to ensure that the accused would seek help for his drug problem.

The court upheld the request for bail made by the defence, stressing that the accused was to abide by various strict conditions. He is to sign the bail book three times weekly and refrain from communicating with his wife and children in any manner whatsoever.

The court imposed a personal guarantee of €5,000 and barred the accused from approaching Senglea where his wife and children reside. Moreover, the accused was made to hand over his key to the matrimonial home to his wife's lawyers in open court.

"Now the matter is in your hands. The final judgment will depend on how you behave. You cannot repeat the wrong done," the magistrate warned the accused.

"Your brother is there to help you but you must take it seriously."

Inspector Josric Mifsud prosecuted.Lawyers Michael and Lucio Sciriha were defence counsel.Lawyers Ludvic Caruana and Janice Borg appeared parte civile.

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