YORKSHIRE MAN JAILED FOR ASSAULTING PREGNANT GIRLFRIEND DESPITE RESTRAINING ORDER
A man involved in a series of violent assaults on his pregnant partner has been sentenced to prison.Luke Furlong, aged 22, attacked the woman several times between July 2022 and March 2023 despite a restraining order in place.
Leeds Crown Court heard that after a night out, he pushed her into the road; on another occasion, he smothered her, and during a further incident, he threw her to the ground while she was pregnant, leading her to believe he might stamp on her.
Prosecutor Ian Mullarkey stated that Furlong admitted to multiple charges during his trial.
The victim’s statement revealed that she suffers from nightmares, flashbacks, and has become socially withdrawn, losing her confidence.
She still feels suffering from earache caused by a slap from Furlong, which also contributed to her missing work and losing her job.
She described restrictions during their relationship, such as not being allowed to wear certain clothes or do her makeup, because he questioned her about her appearance and accused her of trying to attract attention.
She expressed fear about what might happen after Furlong’s potential release, fearing he would try to find her again.
Her statement characterized the relationship as extremely traumatic, affecting her mental health and self-esteem, making her feel worthless.
She also revealed she has not returned home to retrieve her belongings.
Furlong pleaded guilty to charges of assault causing actual bodily harm, suffocation, and breaching a restraining order.
It was also disclosed that he had prior convictions for battery on the same partner, which had resulted in the original restraining order.
While a new restraining order was pending, the existing order remained in effect.
His grandmother announced he would reside with her and her partner outside the local area after his release.
The court was told that Furlong is remorseful and acknowledges the harmful dynamic of their relationship following discussions with probation services.
Judge Clark sentenced him to two years and eight months imprisonment, noting that the relationship was marked by violent and destructive behavior, often worsened by alcohol.
The judge highlighted that Furlong had thrown his pregnant partner to the ground, causing her to fear for her unborn child, and emphasized the physical and emotional harm inflicted.
He ordered Furlong to serve part of his sentence in custody before being released on licence.
