SPENNYMOOR MAN JAILED FOR CONTROLLING AND ABUSIVE BEHAVIOUR IN RELATIONSHIP
A MAN who regularly assaulted and emotionally abused his partner over an 18-month controlling relationship has been sentenced to 27 months in prison.Durham Crown Court heard that Paul Clay, described as a "heavy cannabis user," would become moody when without the drug, and would physically assault his partner by kicking her in the legs and calling her "a fat pig." The court was told he increasingly controlled the victim, often locking her inside their house, preventing contact with family and friends, and on rare visits when she did see loved ones, she was beaten upon returning home.
One specific incident involved pushing her into their Christmas tree and smashing her presents from family members on December 25, 2020.
Prosecutor Joe Hedworth described additional abusive behaviors, including forcing her to eat from a waste bin, kicking her out of bed, catching her as she tried to escape via a window, biting her legs, and forcing her to sleep on the floor.
Other acts included squeezing her hand tightly after a visit, pouring her medication onto the ground, and throwing water at her, causing her to become physically sick.
After ending the relationship in May 2021, Clay continued to contact her through third parties and online, making threats and attempting to persuade her to return.
He was cautioned and arrested in August 2021 for shoving her but denied further assaults, claiming she was free to leave.
Despite orders not to contact her, he persisted, which led to another arrest in October 2021.
Clay admitted to stalking during proceedings and pleaded guilty to controlling and coercive behavior shortly before his trial.
He was sentenced to 27 months in prison and a ten-year restraining order was imposed, prohibiting him from approaching or contacting the victim again.
The victim's impact statement detailed her difficulties with sleep, health issues, and the effect on her work due to the emotional and physical abuse suffered during the relationship.
