MAN WHO PUNCHED PARTNER IN FACE TO 'SHOW HOW MUCH HE LOVED HER' JAILED
Raymond Gray and a woman became involved in a heated dispute last October after Gray, who had been drinking throughout the day, ordered a takeaway that was ultimately discarded.Newcastle Crown Court was informed that the argument escalated into a violent outburst by Gray, who seized the woman and struck her repeatedly in the face and head.
During the assault, Gray bizarrely claimed he was demonstrating his love for her.
The 44-year-old, from Premier Road in Sunderland, who has previous convictions for violence, denied assault charges but was found guilty by a jury following a trial.
Judge Julie Clemitson sentenced Gray to 16 months in prison, commenting that his alcohol consumption had clearly affected his behaviour that evening.
She outlined that the conflict arose over disagreements regarding the payment for and consumption of the takeaway, with some food being thrown away, which sparked the violence.
Gray reportedly grabbed the woman and delivered a series of punches that caused damage to her teeth, and inflicted pain and fear.
The judge highlighted Gray's ludicrous claims about love during the attack, noting that he used this as justification while assaulting her.
In court, the woman read an impact statement herself, expressing that her trust in others has been shattered and that she fears encountering another person like Gray.
She stated, "I gave him my all and he threw it back in my face with a fist".
She also revealed she is living in constant fear and that Gray’s behaviour has made her feel unsafe around others.
The thought of trusting a new partner now terrifies her, and she considers herself and her children to be under ongoing protection.
The court was also informed that Gray submitted character references and maintains a good employment record.
