A MAN WHO HAD TWICE BEEN IMPRISONED FOR ATTACKING HIS PARTNER HAS BEEN JAILED FOR ANOTHER THREE YEARS FOR FURTHER VIOLENCE AGAINST HER
Michael Johnson, aged 35, repeatedly assaulted his former partner of a decade, causing her injuries and instilling fear, as revealed in proceedings at Teesside Crown Court.The woman described her fear of being murdered, explaining that Johnson frequently squeezed her neck and asserting that he controlled every part of her life.
Johnson, from Hurworth Moor in Darlington, pleaded guilty to coercive and controlling conduct.
Back in 2018, Johnson received a two-year prison sentence for witness intimidation after he pressured the woman to withdraw charges following her reports of attack and harassment to police, the court was told.
Later, in 2022, he was sentenced to an additional two years and a month for assaulting her, which involved punching, kicking, dragging her by the hair, and biting her finger, resulting in injuries such as two black eyes, according to Judge Francis Laird KC.
During this period, Johnson also violated a restraining order that prohibited him from contacting her, the court heard.
Despite these events, the pair resumed their relationship in October 2024, with Johnson moving into her home in Darlington.
However, he quickly reverted to violent behaviour, sparking frequent arguments and physical attacks.
The woman revealed to police that she felt incredibly scared of Johnson, describing the situation as terrifying, and expressed that she feared for her life every time he had his hands around her neck.
Her statement included her feeling more terrified of him than of anything else.
On 22 February, surveillance footage showed Johnson climbing onto her roof and peering into her bedroom window while clutching a brick, though she was away staying with a friend at the time.
In court, she read a statement saying Johnson had manipulated her entirely, controlling her thoughts and feelings, and that he would get into her head to undermine her sense of self.
The court recognised that both individuals struggled with drug and alcohol problems, and during her low points, she returned to Johnson, believing the toxic relationship was all she could have.
She expressed regret that the episodes discussed were only a small part of the abuse she endured, revealing that Johnson’s actions had worsened over time.
She now understands her self-worth and believes she deserves a better life, but remains affected by post-traumatic stress disorder, with triggers such as wearing jewellery causing flashbacks of Johnson’s strangulation.
Johnson appeared via video link from HMP Holme House, visibly upset and crying as she recounted her experiences.
In his defence, lawyer Cainan Lonsdale acknowledged Johnson’s conduct as deeply disturbing.
Furthermore, Johnson was issued an indefinite restraining order preventing contact with her, aimed at protecting her from further harm.
