RYAN BLACK SENTENCED IN NEWCASTLE FOR DOMESTIC ABUSE AND VIOLENCE AGAINST HIS GIRLFRIEND

Ryan Black, a 40-year-old man residing on Farne Terrace in Walker, Newcastle, has been handed a prison sentence exceeding four years following his conviction for a series of severe domestic abuse offenses. The court proceedings revealed a disturbing pattern of coercive control, physical violence, and emotional manipulation inflicted upon his 18-year-old girlfriend.

According to the evidence presented at Newcastle Crown Court, Black engaged in relentless acts of violence and intimidation, which included choking his partner until she lost consciousness and setting her hair on fire. The court heard that Black's abusive behavior was not an isolated incident but a consistent pattern, with him regularly assaulting her both physically and verbally. He would often seize her phone and bank card, effectively controlling her access to communication and finances, thereby exerting further dominance over her.

The judge described Black's conduct as 'nasty,' emphasizing the brutality and calculated nature of his actions. Despite denying any wrongdoing, Black was found guilty of coercive control and intentional strangulation. The court detailed specific instances, such as him violently slamming her to the ground and biting her face during altercations. Notably, he strangled her multiple times, including an incident in January 2023, which resulted in her passing out.

During the sentencing, the court highlighted that Black showed moments of remorse, crying and admitting that he could have killed her during one particular incident. The relationship ultimately ended after Black attempted to set her hair alight using a cigarette lighter. Even as she was fleeing the scene on a bus, he continued to threaten her, vowing to kill her family and destroy her home.

The victim described feeling 'anxious and frightened,' living in constant fear and on edge whenever Black was around. The court recognized the high risk he posed to future partners, underscoring the danger he represented. As part of his punishment, Black was sentenced to four years and four months in prison. Additionally, he received an extra sentence for breaching a previously suspended sentence related to earlier offenses. An indefinite restraining order was also issued, prohibiting Black from making any contact with his former partner to ensure her safety and prevent further harm.