VIOLENT MAN SENTENCED FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AT SOUTHEND
A man from south Essex was convicted of assault after physically attacking his partner following their breakup.Dean Akerman, aged 48 and residing on St Clare Meadow in Rochford, was given a sentence of 20 months in prison at Southend Crown Court on Wednesday, December 10.
However, he is expected to serve no additional time as he had already been detained for more than seven months on remand, along with 188 days spent under a monitored curfew.
The assault occurred on August 17, 2023, after the woman ended their relationship, according to prosecutor Peter Walsh.
He explained that she was preparing to go to bed after hours of arguing, and when she asked Akerman to leave, he refused.
An argument escalated, during which he took her phone, then wrapped his hands around her neck and squeezed, making it difficult for her to breathe.
She told police she struggled to take in air.
After a few seconds, Akerman released her throat, then headbutted her, causing a cut on her nose.
He also pulled the television off the wall, poured vodka on her, and smashed a glass at her.
The court heard he then used a lit cigarette to burn her on the back of her neck, leaving visible burn marks.
When she attempted to leave and seek help, he pulled her back inside.
Although he denied the charges, Akerman pleaded guilty on the first day of his trial to intentionally strangling the woman and causing her actual bodily harm.
Prosecutors did not pursue charges related to coercive control or harassment following the assault.
Records showed that Akerman had a history of domestic violence, including 23 offences such as battery and previous assault charges involving the same woman.
His lawyer described the relationship as toxic and stated that Akerman expressed remorse, claiming he was 'possessed by the devil' during the incident.
The defendant also had issues with alcohol and cannabis consumption but reported being sober and committed to never drinking again.
Judge Alun Eynon-Evans stated that due to his violent history and the seriousness of the crime, he would not impose a suspended sentence.
