A Tunbridge Wells man who subjected a woman to repeated violent and mental abuse has been jailed.

Tommy Dunn left his victim suffering a catalogue of injuries following a period of sustained assaults, which included one incident when he beat her with a tree branch.

Dunn, formerly of Liptraps Lane, Tunbridge Wells, was arrested in January after the woman was left requiring medical treatment for multiple injuries including a broken nose, broken toe and widespread bruising to other parts of her body.

He had subjected her to an unprovoked and brutal assault when he punched and elbowed the victim in the head and then went outside to fetch a branch which he used to strike her arms and legs.

Dunn, 24, also pinned the woman down and choked her with his hands.

The court heard that Dunn had been abusive to the woman over a period spanning several months, and had sought to control everything she did. The victim was put in fear of violence if she failed to comply with his demands.

Dunn would also insist on choosing what clothing she wore, and she was effectively banned from having a mobile phone and isolated from both friends and family.

'He used fear, violence and threats to exert control over almost every aspect of her life...'

Dunn pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court to causing grievous bodily harm and engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour.

He was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison and made subject to a five-year restraining order.

Det Insp Christian Mayers, of Kent Police's Vulnerability Investigation Team, said: "Violent bullies like Dunn make people’s lives an absolute misery.

"This victim was made to feel like a prisoner; she had no one to call to for help and Dunn ensured it stayed that way, emotionally blackmailing and manipulating her. "

"He used fear, violence and threats to exert control over almost every aspect of her life.

"I hope the victim is able now to take some assurance that justice has been served and I would like to commend her for the tremendous courage she has shown to assist our investigation."