2004: MAN JAILED FOR PARTNER PUNCH
A 23-year-old man from Evesham, Steven Thorn, was sentenced to six months in prison at Worcester Crown Court after physically assaulting the mother of his young child following a night together.The incident was sparked by a dispute triggered when she received a text message, leading to violence from both parties, as explained by defender Francis Laird.
Thorn, of Temple Mews, Littleworth Street, admitted to assaulting Deborah Ellison on July 17, resulting in her sustaining actual bodily harm.
The couple, who have a son together, started their relationship in 2001, which was often tumultuous.
At the time of the attack, a restraining order was in place.
Thorn had been released from prison the previous February, with arrangements made for supervised visits to see his son.
During the incident, Miss Ellison spent the night at Thorn's flat, where he assaulted her by punching her in the face, causing bruising over her body.
At one point, he reportedly pinned her to the bed and threatened to kill her, according to court reports.
She had injuries including a cut inside her mouth and severe bruising.
While acknowledging that domestic violence is a distressing picture, Mr.
Laird noted that Miss Ellison had initially contacted Thorn and engaged in sex with him before the assault.
Thorn has a history of drug problems but had been undergoing rehabilitation during his time in prison.
Recorder Roger Evans expressed concern about Thorn’s ongoing behavior but highlighted the importance of the parents working together for their child's well-being.
