MICHAEL HYLA SENTENCED IN LINCOLNSHIRE FOR VIOLENT AND OBSESSIVE BEHAVIOR TOWARD EX-PARTNER

Michael Hyla, a 45-year-old man with no fixed address, has been sentenced to a significant custodial term following a disturbing series of violent and threatening actions directed at his former partner. The incident took place in Lincolnshire, where Hyla’s obsessive and controlling behavior escalated to dangerous levels, causing considerable distress and harm to the woman involved.

Hyla, who is known to struggle with a gambling addiction, engaged in invasive and intimidating tactics to monitor his ex-partner’s movements and communications. Court reports detailed how he went to great lengths to spy on her, including tracking her phone and installing a CCTV camera at her residence without her consent. These actions reflected a deep-seated paranoia and obsession, which prosecutors described as relentless and invasive.

During a court hearing, prosecutor Dawn Pritchard outlined the extent of Hyla’s disturbing conduct. She recounted an incident where Hyla, during an argument, threw her passport and other identity documents into the trash, further demonstrating his controlling nature. Additionally, he insisted that she take a pregnancy test, adding to the emotional strain she endured.

The court heard that Hyla’s behavior left his ex-partner feeling emotionally shattered, describing her as feeling “like a wreck of a person” after a series of assaults. One particularly alarming episode occurred in her bedroom, where Hyla called her a rude name, smashed her phone, and repeatedly punched her. These violent acts underscored the dangerous pattern of abuse she suffered.

Further incidents were reported from August 2021, during a holiday in Skegness, where Hyla’s aggression reached a frightening level. He shouted at her, grabbed her by the neck, and began to choke her, applying enough force to cause her to shout for help and stop her breathing for approximately five to ten seconds. Such violence highlighted the severity of his actions and the threat he posed.

The court also heard about Hyla’s threatening behavior, including threats to kill his ex-partner if she was with another man. His actions not only involved physical violence but also intimidation and coercion, often occurring in front of children, which further exacerbated the trauma inflicted.

Judge Stuart Rafferty QC presided over the case at Nottingham Crown Court. He sentenced Hyla to a ten-year restraining order and an additional three years in prison for controlling behavior and related charges. Hyla pleaded guilty to multiple offenses, including assault causing bodily harm, assault by beating, and coercive control, acknowledging the harm he caused.

The judge emphasized Hyla’s pattern of harassment, violence, and obsession, which culminated in this severe sentencing aimed at protecting his former partner from further harm. Despite having no previous convictions or cautions, Hyla’s actions demonstrated a dangerous and persistent pattern of abuse.

Legal representatives for Hyla expressed remorse on his behalf, stating that he understands the relationship is over and that he needs to move forward. The court’s remarks underscored the seriousness of his conduct, with Judge Rafferty stating, “You spied on her, you tracked her, you assaulted her with and without weapons.” The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of obsessive and violent behavior in intimate relationships, especially when left unchecked.