COUNTY DURHAM MAN JAILED FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SADISM AND CONTROL
A domestic violence “sadist” who inflicted violence and threats of further attacks to control his terrified partner has been sentenced to 15 years in prison.Known as Michael Francis, he is classified as “a dangerous offender” and is required to serve a minimum of ten years, with the possibility of spending the entire 15 years incarcerated.After release, he will face a two-year extended licence period.This is his second conviction related to serious domestic abuse, previously receiving a seven-year sentence at Durham Crown Court in January 2019.
The latest offences against a former partner include four charges of assault, two of which were particularly serious, and two of criminal damage — offences he denied, following a trial at Newcastle Crown Court in late July and August.During their relationship, Francis subjected his victim to sustained mental and physical abuse over several months, with some incidents described as so horrific that they disturbed police investigators.
One such incident involved him dragging his partner from a car in a secluded area near Witton-le-Wear, forcibly pushing her face into muddy puddles, holding her under for seconds, and repeatedly kicking and punching her, allegedly in an attempt to infect her with a previous split lip inflicted earlier.
The victim only managed to escape after fleeing to a refuge, where she stayed for some time afterward.The victim has since been diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety, suffering from panic attacks, flashbacks, and migraines.
In court, she described her fear that she would die at Francis’s hands and spoke of the psychological harm inflicted during the relationship.Judge Tim Gittins emphasized the severity of the offences and the psychological terror she endured, stating that she feared for her life on many occasions.
The judge also highlighted that Francis appeared to take “savage relish” in his violence, including incidents on Christmas and New Year’s Day when he was under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
He also has a history of serious violence, including a manslaughter conviction in 2010.
The judge concluded Francis remains a significant and ongoing risk to women, with no demonstrated remorse or insight.As part of his sentence, Francis has been subjected to a lifelong restraining order prohibiting contact with the victim.
The court commended Detective Constable Helen Towns for her support during the investigation, recognizing her skill and dedication in managing a complex case.
The Crown Prosecution Service expressed its hope that the sentence provides some comfort to the victim, emphasizing that Francis’s controlling and violent behaviour caused lasting trauma.
Victims of domestic abuse are encouraged to seek help through local refuges and reporting channels, with contact information provided in the article.
