DOMINIC PHILLIPS

A man who violently pushed his partner onto her back during an argument at a Metro station was described in court as having displayed controlling and aggressive behavior towards her.

Witnesses saw Dominic Phillips, 37, from Sunderland, use force during their dispute at Haymarket Metro station, leading to the woman being left on the ground and aided by bystanders.

The court was informed that Phillips, who admitted to controlling and coercive conduct, initially had a good relationship but became increasingly controlling.

Prosecutor Neil Pallister detailed how CCTV footage shows Phillips pushing her head towards the ticket machine, although the situation seemed to settle temporarily.

However, the couple's dispute escalated outside the station when Phillips forcibly knocked her over.

She was seen on the ground, and others came to her aid while Phillips walked away.

Despite promising to change, Phillips continued his abusive behavior, including sending threatening texts.

During a subsequent argument, the victim sought refuge in a shop, visibly scared, as Phillips became aggressive when she declined to leave with him.

Defense solicitor Fiona Lamb highlighted that Phillips had served a ten-month remand sentence and now needs community support to rebuild his life.

She acknowledged his acknowledgment of his toxic behavior and his inability to continue on the same path.

The judge sentenced him to 16 months' imprisonment, suspended for two years, with requirements for rehabilitation, program engagement, and alcohol monitoring, describing his conduct as disgraceful but believed he had potential for reform.