NOTTINGHAMSHIRE MAN JAILED FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND STRANGULATION OF PARTNER
The Nottinghamshire offender, Andrew Smith, a long-term drug user, was convicted of strangling his on-and-off partner of 20 years with a strap from her handbag.The incident occurred in Worksop, where Smith dragged the victim into an alleyway in front of surprised witnesses.
During the court hearing, Recorder Simon King stated, “For whatever reason you became enraged and this led to a prolonged episode of domestic violence on your then partner.
This included you putting a bag strap around her neck which you pulled tightly.” The court heard that Smith's actions were sparked by a dispute involving a TV and a bag, which escalated when he took a strap from her bag and strangled her.
A witness saw Smith grabbing the victim and pulling her into a passageway, hearing her shout ‘why did you do that?’ She later described feeling ‘terrified’ at what he might do next.
Smith then threatened her with a metal pole and held her in what was described as a ‘pincer-like grip’ with her bag around her neck.
The victim managed to escape and seek help in a chemist.
Smith was later arrested, pleaded guilty to two counts of intentional strangulation and one of affray, and was sentenced to 21 months in prison.
The judge also imposed a restraining order against Smith until further notice.
Prosecutor Steve Gosnell highlighted that Smith had a history of criminal activity, including 62 offences from 1987 onwards.
Smith's mitigating advocate noted that both parties had long struggled with drug addiction, but Smith had recently been drug-free before the incident.
The court's decision emphasizes the severity of domestic violence cases and the importance of protective orders for victims.
