"MAD DOGS" AND IRISHMEN

Former Ulster Defence Association Paramilitary Johnny "Mad Dog" Adair today walked free from court after admitting assaulting his wife.

Adair, 42, drunkenly attacked Gina Adair hours after he was released from prison last month, Bolton Magistrates` Court heard. Karen Tong, prosecuting, said Adair was seen kneeling on his wife and "punching her repeatedly with both arms".

The couple, who have been married for 23 years and have four children, were walking home from a nearby pub after celebrating Adair`s release from prison on September 26.

I bet his wife heaved a sigh of relief when he went into prison for 39 days for harrassment.

A group of children and their parents playing football in the park reported seeing Adair dragging his wife by the hair as she tried to flee, Mrs Tong said.

Mr. Adair obviously needs to be on a continuous and hefty regime of sedatives.

Adair, formerly of Chorley New Road, Bolton, was made the subject of a 12-month community rehabilitation order. The Probation Service will supervise him one-on-one because he is not deemed suitable for group work. His new address was withheld by the court.

Do they fear for the group's safety?

Imposing the Community Rehabilitation Order, David Bonner, chairman of the bench, said: "This domestic violence offence is a very serious matter."

Greater Manchester Police Chief Superintendent Dave Lea said: "This incident is totally unacceptable and assaults of any type will not be tolerated by Greater Manchester Police, especially those assaults committed by those with whom you are entitled to feel safe.

You are joking? This animal should have received a good public flogging and been sent back in for another 39 days to give the poor woman a break.

Kats