A THUG who was captured assaulting a woman on hotel CCTV has walked free from court.

Richard Thompson appeared before Warrington Magistrates Court last Wednesday to be sentenced after pleading guilty to assault by beating.

Prosecuting, James Gore said the offence occurred at the Best Western Forest Hills Hotel in Frodsham on July 7.

“The offence was caught on CCTV. The victim indicates that she was assaulted by the defendant earlier that evening.”

Footage from the hotel shown to the court saw Thompson seated next to a woman, the victim in the case, in what looked to be a communal area of the premises.

The pair are in discussion when the defendant turns and slaps the woman across the face before she pushes back at him.

The sentencing took place at Warrington Magistrates Court The sentencing took place at Warrington Magistrates Court (Image: NQ)

Mr Gore added that the 51-year-old, of Winwood, Liverpool, has six previous convictions for 16 offences including offences of criminal damage.

Defending, Simon Dunn said: “Mr Thompson has pointed out his regret and accepts that he acted in a manor. He was shocked by his actions when he viewed the CCTV.”

He also stated that the offender is currently on licence from another offence.

“He had a significant alcohol issue; he has engaged with the mental health services.”

Concluding the sentencing, district judge Dorwick said: “I have heard everything that has been said. This type of offence has a range of sentences available.

“It’s aggravated by the fact that this is a domestic abuse incident, and you were drunk at the time, and you have previous convictions.

“I have also taken into account what has been said about your mental health.

“I am going to sentence you to a community order.”

Thompson was handed a 12-month community order and was ordered to carry out a 120-120 alcohol programme requirement as well as 20 rehabilitation requirement days.

He was also fined £100 by the courts.