A man has been jailed after throwing an axe at a pregnant woman’s stomach.

Lawrence Neeley bruised the victim after hurling the weapon at her stomach and swinging it at her arm in Maidstone.

The woman was forced to endure a period of sustained abuse and threats between August and September 2022.

Other assaults included Neeley cutting her chin with a knife and headbutting her.

He was arrested on September 5 after the victim secretly mouthed help to staff at a bank in Maidstone.

The 48-year-old appeared before Maidstone Crown Court where he pleaded guilty to causing actual bodily harm, assault by beating, and resisting a constable in the execution of their duty.

He also admitted possessing cocaine.

On Wednesday, November 29, Neeley was sentenced to two years and eight months’ imprisonment.

“Neeley was responsible for a number of violent and repeated assaults on his victim...”

Investigating officer, DC Jozeph Yandle, said: “Neeley was responsible for a number of violent and repeated assaults on his victim, showing little to no regard for her safety and emotional welfare, nor that of her unborn child.

“It is right that he serves a prison sentence and I do hope that this offers the victim some comfort and reassurance.

“Kent Police takes all reports of violence against women and girls extremely seriously and we work tirelessly to bring offenders to justice.

“The force has more than 900 officers working in local areas specifically investigating offences connected to violence and abuse against women.

“Those officers also support victims in several ways including carrying out welfare calls, signposting to the most appropriate support services as well as providing help to find a place to live for those seeking refuge.”