A MAN who attempted to strangle a woman with a cord has avoided an immediate jail sentence.

Ian Christopher O'Toole, of Oxton Street, Liverpool pleaded guilty to assault and making threats.

O'Toole, 29, appeared at Liverpool, Knowsley and St Helens Magistrates' Court on February 15.

He admitted to assaulting a woman on Saturday, February 13 at an address in Newton-le-Willows.

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O'Toole also admitted to sending a threatening electronic communication and making off without payment for a service done on the same date.

He was given a 20-week sentence, suspended for 12 months.

According to a court sheet, O'Toole received the prison sentence because of the "serious offences" which were "aggravated by attempted strangulation with a cord".

It added he was spared immediate jail because of his "now drug-free existence" and "imminent prospect of well-aid employment".

He was made to pay a £128 surcharge, £85 in costs to the CPS and £38.30 in compensation and was given a restraining order.