Man who punched someone in the face after financial dispute with partner sentenced in Whanganui District Court

Judge Philip Crayton (pictured) sentenced Joshua Leota to supervision, hoping it would assist him in gaining skills to avoid future offending. Photo / Stuart Munro

A man punched his victim in the face after a dispute with his partner over money.

Joshua Hohepa Terangi Tama Leota had been with his partner for four years and in that time there had been no family harm incidents between them.

That changed on Tuesday, January 8 when Leota wanted his partner to withdraw some money from her account to pay him.

"The victim advised the defendant she would deduct a small amount first which annoyed him," police prosecutor Drew Morrison said in Whanganui District Court.

"As such he smashed holes in the bedroom door and smashed a glass panel on the front door of the address."

A second victim then arrived at the address and asked Leota what was going on.

"The defendant punched this victim in the face. In explanation he stated he just wanted his money," Morrison said.

Lawyer Raukawa Simon said Leota informed her that all members of the household had dealt with these sorts of issues.

"They've been together for a period of time and there has been an agreement from my client to make good for the damages," Simon said.

"There is a hope that this family can get back together. A few generations have lived in the home and he is the primary caregiver of a child aged 8."

Leota pleaded guilty to charges of common assault and wilful damage.

Judge Philip Crayton sentenced Leota to nine months' supervision, saying he hoped it would assist him in gaining skills to avoid similar situations occurring in future.

"Mr Leota you know where violence leads you and you don't want to be going back there," Judge Crayton said.

"You need to ensure that you take the support you can get and that you maintain and avoid any outbursts like this in the future."

Leota was previously sentenced to 60 hours' community work for common assault in 2008.