THUG TOLD TERRIFIED PARTNER 'I'M GOING TO BITE YOUR FACE OFF' DURING VIOLENT ATTACK
A man told his terrified partner "I'm going to bite your face off" during a violent attack.Michael Burden assaulted his then-partner and smashed her belongings during a 10-month relationship.
The 47-year-old bit the woman's face and pulled a chunk of her hair out during an incident at her County Durham home, which only ended when he was struck over the head with a wooden bat.
Burden later breached a restraining order that had been imposed to protect her.
On Friday, Burden appeared at Durham Crown Court via link from HMP Holme House to be sentenced for assault occasioning actual bodily harm, three counts of criminal damage, and breaching a restraining order.
He pleaded guilty to all charges.
The court was told their relationship lasted around 10 months and was described as "not great”.
On November 8, 2024, Burden smashed the front of a set of drawers after accusing her of cheating.
The argument started after he was upset by her wanting cocaine.
But days later, on November 13, his partner went shopping in Durham city centre and had a few drinks with friends.
When she returned, an argument broke out, and she managed to scratch his face and neck.
Mr Baker, the prosecutor, said: "[Burden] pushed her and she fell and hit her head on a radiator.
She wanted him to leave, and he refused." They scuffled, and she scratched his face.
Burden then said, "I'm going to bite your face off," and bit her lip, holding on for seconds.
He also pulled a chunk of hair out before she struck him with a wooden bat.
After being hit, Burden left but returned and kicked in her front door, then stamped on her Apple Watch, causing over £400 damage.
The victim ran to a neighbor for help.
She said Burden's behaviour left her feeling unsafe in her own home and battling mental health issues.
In 2025, a non-molestation and restraining order were issued to protect her.
The court heard Burden had 15 previous convictions for 32 offenses.
His solicitor acknowledged his remorse and noted he is a mentor and an inmate at HMP Holme House with a full-time job.
The judge jailed Burden for 18 months and imposed a five-year restraining order.
