A CARLISLE man who threatened to “murder” his partner during a relationship marred by his violence and coercive conduct has been jailed for more than three years.
The city’s crown court heard today (MON) how Dionne Winthrop was “roughly handled and assaulted with frequency” by Michael Karl Celmins, 29, while they were together for several months last year.
On one occasion, after Celmins was quizzed about his phone use, he pinned Miss Winthrop down with his legs, put his hands around her throat and face, and gouged her eyes.
On another, he threatened Miss Winthrop with a bottle of ammonia he kept in his home in case of intruders, telling her: “I’ll murder you.” Celmins threatened her family so she wouldn’t report his criminal conduct, the court heard, and wouldn’t allow her to seek medical treatment. However, she eventually decided to tell police what had gone on, describing their relationship as “horrible, disgusting”.
Celmins initially denied using controlling or coercive behaviour towards Miss Winthrop but changed his plea to guilty on day two of his trial last month. He also admitted assaulting her female friend during a van journey, and threatening her with a knife; and illegally possessing CS spray at his house.
Celmins, of Reeth Road, Carlisle, was jailed for 38 months by Judge James Adkin.
After the case, Detective Constable David Hutcheson said: “The defendant subjected his former partner to months of violent assaults in the home, including attacks which could have caused permanent injury, as well as engaging in threats which put her in fear for her life.
“The victim showed great courage in coming forward and reporting the offences so action could be taken against Celmins. This action has resulted in a significant prison sentence today.
“Cumbria Constabulary would encourage anyone who is experiencing domestic abuse to come forward. You will be listened to, you will be helped, supported and safeguarded and we will work to bring perpetrators to justice.”
