DRUG-USING EX PARTNER BEATEN AND BRUISED IN DARLINGTON COURT
A WOMAN was left badly bruised after being pinned to the ground and repeatedly punched by her former partner, a court heard.Prosecutor John Garside told Darlington Magistrates’ Court that Christopher Gunnell, aged 34, had assaulted his partner, causing her to sustain lumps on her head, bruises to her back, ribs, and a swollen eye.The incident occurred on November 24 after Gunnell returned to her Darlington flat, where she suspected he was under the influence of drugs.
Despite her concerns, she allowed him to sleep off the effects in her home.Garside explained that when Gunnell woke, he became argumentative and started physically assaulting her, repeatedly punching her while pinning her to the ground.
During the attack, he made a disturbing remark, saying, 'so you don’t hate me any less.'Officers responded to a 999 call made by the victim during the attack and arrested Gunnell, who was found carrying ketamine, a Class C drug.
He admitted to assault by beating and possession of the drug.
No mitigation was presented, and the case was adjourned for a pre-sentence report.
Gunnell is scheduled to return to court on February 27 and has been released on bail with the condition that he does not contact his ex-partner.
