Newcastle, England — A 27-year-old man received a suspended prison sentence after violently assaulting his partner in an incident that left her fearing for her life, a court revealed this week.
Liam Herron attacked the mother of his child during a June argument over their evening plans, which escalated when he became upset about her reluctance to go out. The altercation turned severe when Herron allegedly grabbed her throat, restricting her ability to breathe. The assault ceased only after a neighbor intervened, responding to the woman’s frantic cries for help.
Appearing in Newcastle Crown Court on Wednesday, Herron pleaded guilty to charges of intentional strangulation and assault. Prosecutor Ian Cook detailed the events that unfolded in the couple’s County Durham home, where tensions mounted as they prepared for a night out.
Cook stated that during the heated exchange, after being slapped, Herron aggressively pushed her against a wall and attempted to seize her phone. The two fell onto the kitchen floor, where Herron continued his attack, squeezing her neck so tightly that she genuinely feared for her life.
Following the neighbor’s prompt assistance, the victim sustained various injuries, including bruises and scratches, and showed signs of having been strangled. In a separate incident earlier this year, Herron had also pleaded guilty to assaulting a child while they were sitting on his lap.
In court, defense attorney Jane Foley highlighted Herron’s expressed remorse, attributing his behavior to long-standing mental health issues stemming from childhood trauma. Describe Herron as a qualified chef with no previous convictions.
Judge Penny Moreland sentenced Herron to 13 months in prison, suspended for 21 months. As part of his sentence, Herron must complete 150 hours of community service and attend 20 rehabilitation sessions. The judge also mandated a six-month mental health treatment requirement and an indefinite restraining order to protect the victim. Additionally, Herron is obliged to pay a £187 surcharge within 14 days.
This case underscores the serious implications of domestic violence and serves as a stark reminder of the trauma victims endure.