Man convicted of controlling ex-partner
A Workington man has become one of the first people in the country to be convicted for the new offence of controlling and coercive behaviour.
Dean Norris, 23, of Gray Street, was sentenced to 90 days in prison suspended for 12 months at West Cumbria Magistrates Court today.
Norris admitted coercive and controlling behaviour against his ex-partner and common assaults on his ex-partner and her young child.
District Judge Chalk said: “You will get credit for a guilty plea and you are previously of good character.
"However, you manipulated the victim and controlled her, you are disgraceful.”
Detective Sergeant Jim Rooney, who led the investigation, said: “I am pleased with the sentence that District Judge Chalk gave to Mr Norris today and agree that he is a disgraceful individual.
"He has subjected the victim and her daughter to a dreadful attack and controlled the victim in the most dreadful, degrading way.
“The weight of evidence against him was so great that he had no option than to plead guilty and prevent the victim from any further torment.
“Cumbria Constabulary are committed to providing victims of crime with the support they need and I would encourage anyone who finds themselves the victim of crime to come forward and report it.
"I can assure victims of domestic violence and controlling behaviour that they will be treated courteously and compassionately by specially trained officers.”
Norris was also told to do 40 hours unpaid work and to go through rehabilitation.
He was given a permanent restraining order and must pay £300 compensation to the victim and £200 costs.
His phone will be destroyed.
To report domestic abuse, call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
