LEE PRESTON'S BRUTAL CRIMES IN FENTON AND STOKE-ON-TRENT LEAD TO 16-MONTH JAIL SENTENCE

Lee Preston, a man born around 1986 and residing on Grove Avenue in Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent, has been convicted and sentenced to prison following a series of disturbing incidents that showcased his violent and abusive behavior. The court heard how Preston's actions not only involved physical assault and criminal damage but also included the cruel mistreatment of an innocent puppy, which he bought in a misguided attempt to rekindle a romantic relationship.

Preston’s troubled relationship with his former partner, whom he met at their mutual workplace, Dunelm, had already become strained due to his increasingly volatile and controlling behavior. His partner eventually decided to end the relationship, citing his aggressive tendencies and possessiveness. However, Preston’s attempts to win her back took a darker turn when he resorted to destructive and violent acts.

On September 28, 2022, Preston made an unannounced visit to his ex-girlfriend’s home. During this visit, he began kicking her front door, causing damage to the bottom corner, which compromised the door’s locking mechanism. This act of vandalism was part of his persistent efforts to intrude upon her privacy and regain control. Subsequently, in a misguided effort to rekindle their relationship, Preston purchased a puppy and took it to her residence. Unfortunately, this gesture was marred by his cruelty, as surveillance footage captured Preston kicking the puppy, which yelped in pain. The court was told that the dog’s current whereabouts remain unknown, and the incident was described as a sadistic attack.

Further violence erupted on December 18, when Preston returned to his ex-girlfriend’s home. Witnesses reported that he was aggressive and verbally abusive, escalating to physical violence. Preston began kicking her front door and attempting to pull the doorbell off the wall. When she came outside to confront him, he continued his assault, grabbing her by the hair and dragging her. During this altercation, he bit her on the neck after slamming her against the wall of her garage. Despite her pleas for him to leave, Preston refused and escalated his violence by throwing a flower pot at the door. A neighbor who observed the incident described it as ‘horrific,’ highlighting the severity of Preston’s actions.

The victim’s mental health was significantly impacted by Preston’s aggressive conduct, which demonstrated a pattern of controlling and violent behavior. Preston’s actions led to multiple charges, including assault occasioning actual bodily harm, criminal damage, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. He pleaded guilty to all charges.

During the court proceedings, defense counsel Barry White noted that Preston had spent four weeks in custody following his arrest and struggled to adapt to prison life. However, the presiding judge, Recorder Robert Smith, emphasized the seriousness of Preston’s offenses. He stated that only an immediate custodial sentence was appropriate, citing Preston’s jealousy, controlling nature, and arrogance. The judge expressed concern about the risk Preston posed to future partners and dismissed any notion of remorse, describing Preston as a man who posed a significant threat.

Ultimately, Preston was sentenced to 16 months in prison for his involvement in the animal cruelty and domestic abuse incidents. The court did not impose any restrictions or bans following his release. This case underscores the importance of addressing violent and controlling behavior early to prevent such tragic outcomes in the community of Stoke-on-Trent and beyond.