Accused blamed wife for fire

[Nwicker60]

Banned from seeing her pending background report
A MAN threatened his wife while blaming her for the fire which forced them to seek alternative accommodation, Wick Sheriff Court was told this week. The incident occurred at their temporary address at Room 133 Ormlie Lodge, Thurso, on July 26 while repairs were being carried out to their home.
The heard that John Goodbrand had been drinking when the trouble began.
David Barclay, prosecuting, said that the accused blamed her for the fire and at one point threatened to hit Janet Goodbrand. His outburst was heard by another resident in the block and the police were contacted. The accused admitted threatening or abusive behaviour.
Solicitor Neil Wilson said that Goodbrand accepted he had "gone a little over the top". His wife of some 30 years was now staying at a different flat in Ormlie Lodge.
Sheriff Andrew Berry called for a background report and banned Goodbrand from having any contact with her pending his return to court for sentence, on September 4.