2014: JAILED: DRUG DEALER WHO DROVE AT AND HEADBUTTED HIS GIRLFRIEND
A drug dealer has received a prison sentence after an incident where he drove at his girlfriend, headbutted her, and struck her head against a vehicle.Christopher Astley was detained following the attack on a busy road, as stated in Bolton Crown Court proceedings.
The case revealed that the dispute between Astley and his partner, Megan Lomax, had initially occurred the night before but was resolved before the violent incident.
However, during a drive near the University of Bolton on a Saturday afternoon in February, the argument resumed.
Ms Lomax exited the car, but witnesses later observed Astley driving her MG ZR directly toward her on Derby Street, reaching speeds of approximately 40mph on the wrong side of the road.
The prosecution, led by Joanna Rodikis, noted that witness John Newlove described Astley’s behavior as if he was fighting an opponent.
Astley then punched Ms Lomax and forcefully headbutted her against the vehicle’s frame.
Afterwards, the couple left the scene walking away from the vehicle.
Police officers recovered nearly £1,000 worth of drugs, including 39 heroin wraps and 21 crack cocaine wraps, from the car.
Astley had previously taken out a loan from an old school friend to cover financial difficulties and had resorted to drug dealing to repay this debt.
He acknowledged headbutting Ms Lomax and expressed regret for his actions.
Known to have prior convictions for arson and other driving offences, Astley was arrested later that day.
Recorder Paul O’Brien stated that Astley admitted to both assaulting his girlfriend and dealing in Class A drugs, and was subsequently sentenced to four years in prison, along with an 18-month driving ban.
