Man jailed for assault on ex-partner after strangulation and punch

Wayne Keal, a 38-year-old man from Spilsby Road in Boston, has been sentenced to two and a half years in prison after admitting to strangling and punching his ex-partner.The incident took place in the early hours of 20 October when Keal, under the influence of alcohol and drugs, arrived at the victim's home shortly after 01:00 GMT. According to the victim, the assault lasted around 40 minutes, and she was only able to leave after Keal fell asleep.At Lincoln Crown Court, Judge Simon Hirst sentenced Keal, stating that the sentence could not be suspended because Keal had twice put his arms around the victim. The court was told that Keal had sent a threatening message to the woman, promising to "smash her front door in." The victim, who feared further damage, left her front door open, allowing Keal to enter her home.Keal then reportedly put her head in the crook of his arm, lifting her up which caused her to fear she would pass out. He also flipped her over and punched her in the face. Keal then put his arm around her neck again, causing her to fear she would lose consciousness. The woman sustained injuries including a swollen jaw, a black eye, and bruising.Defense lawyer Tom Heath argued that the strangulation incidents were short-lived and that Keal had stopped when asked. He added that Keal had only two previous convictions for violence and had since changed his lifestyle, including stopping the use of cocaine, drugs, and alcohol.