Man Sentenced for Domestic Abuse and Assault on Girlfriend in Douglas

A man named Michael Keane, aged 38, has been sentenced to two years and nine months in prison after repeatedly assaulting his girlfriend and forcing her to conceal the bruises he inflicted. Keane's abusive behavior began within three weeks of their relationship starting in October 2023, initially manifesting as verbal abuse, which escalated to physical violence over a period of six months. The court heard that at one point, he placed a mattress against the woman's flat door to prevent her from leaving. The victim, described as vulnerable, endured 'appalling' and degrading treatment, including being punched in the face in April 2023. When she managed to escape and contacted her sister, she was encouraged to report the abuse, leading to Keane's arrest. Keane also violated his bail conditions by entering her flat without permission and sending threatening messages. The court was presented with a victim impact statement where she expressed her shock and heartbreak, stating she never imagined someone she trusted could hurt her so severely. Keane pleaded guilty to domestic abuse offenses committed from November 1, 2023, to May 4, 2024. The judge, Deemster Graeme Cook, labeled the victim as 'extremely vulnerable' and emphasized her trust in Keane. To protect her, a restraining order was imposed, forbidding Keane from contacting or approaching her, and an exclusion order bans him from the Isle of Man for five years after his release.