CONTROLLING AND VIOLENT NORWICH MAN STOPPED PARTNER FROM LEAVING THE HOUSE
A man known for his controlling and violent behavior has been sentenced to prison after preventing his partner from leaving their home and blocking her from contacting family members.Lee Mallet, aged 40 and residing on Newbegin Road in Norwich, had a brief relationship with the victim, lasting only a few months.
Throughout their relationship, he confined her predominantly to the bedroom and exerted control over all facets of her daily life.
Court proceedings revealed that he had strangled her to the point where she was unable to breathe and had warned her not to swallow her saliva.
The abuse took a toll on her health; she lost significant weight, the court was told.
The judge described the case as one of the most severe instances of domestic violence he had encountered, highlighting the extreme emotional domination involved.
Mallett was taken into custody on October 5 of the previous year following a call from the victim’s mother to the police.
After a trial, he was convicted and sentenced to 45 months in prison.
Additionally, he was issued a restraining order valid for ten years.
During sentencing, Recorder Richard Conley remarked: “It would take a long explanation to cover all the physical and emotional abuse you subjected her to during your brief relationship.
“You’ve showed a persistent action over a prolonged period.
It was insidious and calculated behaviour.
You were a Jekyll and Hyde character.” The judge further noted that Mallett showed no remorse or concern for his actions.
Detective Constable Sarah Tonge, who led the investigation, commented: ““The offence of controlling and coercive behaviour has such a devastating impact on the victim and I commend her for her bravery in this case.
“This sentence will not undo what she has been through but it goes some way in helping her rebuild her life.
"This is an offence that we take very seriously and I would encourage anyone to come forward if they are experiencing these behaviours themselves or are concerned for someone they know.”
