A man who used violence to control his partner, and caused over £94,000-worth of damage, has been jailed.
Paul Garvey, 66, of Holmrook in West Cumbria, was found guilty of two counts of criminal damage, burglary and coercive and controlling behaviour.
The offences were against one victim.
He was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison at Carlisle Crown Court today.
Garvey used violence against the victim on several occasions and was controlling her outfits and relationships with family and friends.
The court heard that whilst on a holiday in Scotland, Garvey had assaulted and made threats to kill his victim, causing her to flee from a moving vehicle and seek refuge with a member of public.
He then attended the victim’s address in Cumbria with a crowbar, forcing his way in.
In a rage, he began smashing items, breaking cupboards and pulling appliances from the wall before taking a rock from the garden to smash the toilet.
He also smashed the windscreen of a vehicle at the property.
Garvey also took items not belonging to him.
Garvey was arrested and police officers carried out a search at his property locating items he had taken.
Extensive repairs were needed, reaching a total cost of £94,314, including a loss of over £13,000 to the victim’s employer after damage to a vehicle and home office equipment.
Detective Constable Ben Wright said; “Garvey’s relentless attack on the victim’s home was only part of a wider pattern of abuse, but it speaks clearly to his capacity for aggression and violence. I would like to thank the victim and other witnesses for their courage in coming forward and helping to prevent further harm.”
“Offences of this nature will not be tolerated by Cumbria Constabulary, and we will do everything within our power to hold them accountable for their actions and bring them to justice.
“I would encourage anyone who has been victim of a domestic offence to contact police so that our officers can investigate. You will be supported throughout our investigation.
