A former British soldier has been handed a prison sentence after pleading guilty to strangling his wife in a terrifying domestic violence incident that shocked the court.
The 38-year-old ex-serviceman, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, admitted to the brutal attack during a hearing at Worcester Crown Court. Prosecutors revealed disturbing details of how he assaulted his spouse during an alcohol-fuelled rage.
Chilling Details Emerge in Court
According to court documents, the violent episode occurred after the couple had been drinking at their home. Witnesses reported hearing screams and the sounds of a struggle before police were called to the scene.
Medical examinations later confirmed the victim had suffered significant injuries consistent with strangulation, including bruising around her neck and damage to her throat.
Military Background Raises Questions
The defendant's military service became a focal point during sentencing, with the judge noting his combat training potentially made the attack more dangerous. "Your skills as a soldier should have been used to protect, not harm," the judge admonished.
Defence lawyers argued their client suffered from PTSD following tours of duty in conflict zones, but the judge dismissed this as insufficient justification for the violence.
Sentence Sends Strong Message
In delivering the sentence, the judge emphasized the seriousness of strangulation offences in domestic abuse cases. "This was not a momentary loss of control, but a sustained attack that could have had fatal consequences," the judge stated.
The sentence reflects recent changes in how courts handle domestic violence cases, particularly those involving strangulation, which is now recognized as a strong predictor of future lethal violence in abusive relationships.
Domestic violence charities have welcomed the ruling, hoping it will encourage more victims to come forward and report similar incidents.
