NORTON MAN SENTENCED AFTER DRUNKEN ASSAULT AND THREATS TO PARTNER

A father named Lee Anthony Hamilton, aged 22, was involved in a domestic violence incident in Norton. He screamed death threats at his partner and physically assaulted her while she was in bed, after she took their children out on his birthday without him. According to the prosecution, Michele Stuart-Lofthouse, Hamilton hit his girlfriend’s hip and called her names, causing her 'extreme pain' and making her cry. The court was informed that the noise woke their young children, who were upset by the incident. Hamilton also struck the woman's jaw during the altercation. As she called emergency services, Hamilton yelled threats of killing her and her family. The couple has since separated, and she has no intention of reconciling. The court heard that Hamilton was so upset he drank heavily for 10 hours the day after his birthday before returning home at 11 pm. The judge, Recorder James Hill QC, described Hamilton's behavior as terrifying, noting he was drunk and possibly fueled by self-pity. Hamilton pleaded guilty to causing actual bodily harm and making threats to kill. He was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years, with conditions including 150 hours of unpaid work and two years of supervision and rehab. The incident took place in July 2012, following a family disagreement over which events to attend that weekend. Hamilton expressed remorse, stating, 'I am desperately sorry for what I did'. His solicitor, Tom Gent, explained his behavior as emotional and immature, resorting to alcohol and self-pity.