A controlling boyfriend who stamped on his partner and bit her nose during an abusive relationship has been jailed.

Rik Newton was jailed after pleading guilty at Maidstone Crown Court to an offence of controlling or coercive behaviour in an intimate relationship.

Newton, aged 24, of Shakespeare Road, Tonbridge, was responsible for a prolonged and sustained period of abuse, including violent assaults, between December 2015 and October 2018.

Incidents included biting the woman's nose, head-butting her and inflicting injuries by stamping, kicking and punching.

He also controlled the victim's finances, transferring money from her bank account into his own, at times leaving her unable to pay for food and bills.

Newton was arrested by police on July 28, 2018.

Appearing before Maidstone Crown Court he was charged with offences of controlling and coercive behaviour in an intimate relationship, assault by beating and two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

He pleaded guilty and was sentenced on May 10 to four years' imprisonment.

A further five charges were ordered by the court to lie on file.

Detective Constable Adam Ferguson said: "Newton continuously abused and tormented his victim during the vast majority of their relationship.

"He subjected her to the most appalling violence, leaving her fearing for her life on a number of occasions" - Det Con Adam Ferguson

"He subjected her to the most appalling violence, leaving her fearing for her life on a number of occasions.

The victim was also made to endure relentless mental anguish, even after she had tried to end the relationship.

"Newton would make constant demands and threats and effectively also cut off her independence, by taking control of her bank account.

"DC Ferguson added: "I hope this sentence sends a strong message to perpetrators that domestic abuse will not be tolerated.

"We have a range of services available through partner agencies to help keep victims safe.

"They may be feeling frightened, isolated and ashamed but they are not to blame for what is happening.

"No one should suffer in silence and we encourage them to report offences."

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