A Watervliet man charged with second offense domestic violence, assault and battery, as well as contempt of court was sentenced by Judge Angela Pasula to 60 days in the Berrien County Jail and 12 months of probation Monday.
On Sept. 3, Jeffrey Cummings, 45, who lives in the 7000 block of Thomas Dr. in Watervliet, assaulted a Niles man who was allegedly having relations with Cummings’ wife. The man said he showed up to protect the woman after she reportedly texted him to say Cummings was abusing her.
The man said he went to confront Cummings, who proceeded to shove him twice.
“I feel that Mr. Cummings should be in custody for the assault , because Mr. Cummings has no regard to the law or to the safety of the citizens,” the victim said.
The man also said that he had a restraining order against Cummings that he would like to keep in place.
After receiving the text messages from Cummings’ wife, he said he told her to call the police.
He did not have to receive medical treatment after the encounter.
Cummings, who made bail after his arrest reportedly violated bond when he changed his employment place without notifying the court. He pleaded guilty to bond violation.
Cummings has had alcohol-related charges in the past, but he told the judge that he has never had any other problems with drugs and regularly submits to tests at his subcontractor job. According to Pasula, he had at least four prior arrests on his record related to assault.
Judge Angela Pasula said Cummings had a problem with managing his anger.
“You don’t have the right to push or shove or hit anyone. It doesn’t matter why you are angry at that person,” Pasula said. “So it appears you do have a problem with assaultive behavior. Violence is an emotion that is a choice.”
In addition to serving time, Cummings faces $1,185 in fines.