BELFAST MAN JAILED AFTER VIOLENT ATTACK AND THREATS TO EX-PARTNER

A man identified as Jordan Samuel Spence, residing on Lawnbrook Drive in Belfast, has been sentenced to 20 months in prison for a violent attack on his ex-partner. The assault took place at his home on 9 March of the previous year and involved multiple brutal acts including punching the victim repeatedly, strangulation, smashing her mobile phone, and threatening her with a sword, declaring, "I am going to cut you into bits and hide you where no-one will find you." The victim sustained injuries such as facial swelling, a thumb injury, and marks on her neck. Spence has a significant history of domestic violence and has 43 previous convictions, some involving domestic abuse. During the court proceedings, it was mentioned that the victim believed she was pregnant, a fact not proven but acknowledged by Spence. The judge ordered Spence to serve an additional 20 months on license upon release. Spence also pleaded guilty to criminal damage, threats to kill, and false imprisonment, all aggravated by domestic abuse. The court also imposed a five-year restraining order banning Spence from contacting his former partner. The victim described ongoing emotional trauma, including flashbacks, nightmares, depression, and anxiety. Spence's background includes chronic mental health issues and drug misuse, with a defense highlighting his history of witnessing and experiencing domestic violence in childhood. The sentencing aims to address his dangerous behavior, with emphasis on preventing future violence.