Headbutt broke partner's nose

David Anthony Walsh, 26, was sentenced to 100 hours' community work after pleading guilty to a charge of male assaults female and resisting police.

A Masterton man who headbutted his heavily-pregnant girlfriend in the face, breaking her nose, was sentenced to nine months' supervision and 100 hours' community work.

David Anthony Walsh, 26, appeared in Masterton District Court last week for sentencing, having pleaded guilty to a charge of male assaults female and resisting police.

Prosecuting sergeant Garry Wilson said on August 20 Walsh and his 30-week pregnant partner got into an argument, which deteriorated to a physical altercation when Walsh headbutted her in the face.

The woman contacted her mother for help and when Walsh left the house she phoned police.

Police parked on the front lawn to prevent Walsh from going back inside. He became aggressive and verbally abusive towards them.

Police advised Walsh he was under arrest and when police attempted to apply handcuffs Walsh held his hands together at the front to prevent them.

He was forced to the ground and handcuffs were put on.

Defence lawyer Frank Minehan said the couple had a strong desire to maintain their relationship and had another child on the way.

Judge Tony Walsh said a sentence of supervision would address Walsh's anger issues.

"Obviously you've got anger issues you need to address and if you don't you are going to get into more trouble.

"You must understand resorting to violence is unacceptable, there is no excuse for it."