OFFENDER JAILED FOR DOMESTIC ASSAULT IN EASTBOURNE
A man has been sentenced to imprisonment and issued a restraining order following a serious incident of domestic assault.Oliver McDonald, aged 53, residing on Brookside Avenue in Polegate, appeared before Lewes Crown Court on June 25 for sentencing proceedings.
The court was informed that on September 3 of the previous year, McDonald’s partner, a 64-year-old woman, had told him she wished to end their relationship due to his aggressive conduct over the past six months.
The next day, she visited their home in Eastbourne to collect some belongings.
Reports indicate that as she was departing, McDonald approached her as he entered the property.
He questioned her about the bags she was carrying, and she explained she was leaving with them.
At this point, he became physically aggressive, lunging at her, strangling, punching, and kicking her.
He also seized her mobile phone.
The woman managed to leave the scene and drove to a police station to report the assault.
McDonald followed her there and was subsequently detained on suspicion of non-fatal strangulation and actual bodily harm.
He was charged with theft, assault by beating, and two counts of strangulation.
Initially denying the allegations, McDonald later admitted guilt on all charges.
He was sentenced to almost three years in prison, received a 10-year restraining order, and was ordered to pay a surcharge of £228.
Detective Constable Daniel Turk, who led the investigation, stated: “We thank the victim and her daughter for their cooperation and support throughout this case.
The incident had a significant physical, emotional, and financial impact on her, and her courage in cooperating is commendable.
“This sentence underscores the seriousness of domestic abuse and aims to serve as a stern warning that such conduct will not be tolerated.
We hope this outcome provides some sense of resolution for the victim and her family.
To those experiencing domestic abuse, our message is clear – help is available, and we will do everything possible to ensure your safety and achieve justice.”
