MAN JAILED FOR SMASHING EX-PARTNER INTO TABLE
A man responsible for assaulting his former partner by forcing her face into a coffee table and dragging her around her home has been sentenced to prison.Colin Saunders, aged 45, inflicted physical injuries on Nikki Garvey, such as bruises and lacerations on her face.
Residing in Hemlock, Devon, Saunders denied intentionally causing her bodily harm but was convicted by Exeter Magistrates' Court.
The verdict at Exeter Crown Court led to a sentence of one year and four months in prison.
Judge Timothy Rose remarked: "Your assault was notably severe; there is no distinction between hitting someone with a table and striking them against one." According to court testimony, Saunders told Ms Garvey during the attack that he could "demolish her." The incident occurred at her residence in Exmouth on June 30, after Saunders was caught rummaging through her medication.
During the assault, Saunders repeatedly pushed her face against a coffee table, and then dragged her into the kitchen by her hair, causing burns from the carpet and cuts on her legs.
He also struck her head against a door before ceasing the violence and calling for medical assistance.
Evidence showed that she needed hospital treatment and now bears a facial scar.
Prosecutor Emily Cook stated that Saunders and Ms Garvey had been together for 12 years but were separated at the time of the attack.
Saunders has prior convictions, including time served for an earlier assault on Ms Garvey.
He claimed to have arrived at the house after finding her already injured.
A restraining order was issued, prohibiting Saunders from contacting Ms Garvey and from entering Exmouth town.
