Benjamin Morgan, 29, of Ryde Street, Hull, was jailed at Hull Crown Court after repeatedly humiliating and degrading his girlfriend. He threatened to kill her and instructed her to 'Google' him so she could read about his previous domestic violence convictions.
Violent and coercive behaviour
Morgan admitted assault causing actual bodily harm and intentional suffocation on 24 May, as well as controlling and coercive behaviour between 1 February and 24 May. The court heard he accused the woman of infidelity, urinated in her shoes, poured beer on her, and blocked doorways to prevent her leaving.
Prosecutor Harry Bradford said Morgan's mood became volatile and aggressive after they met online. He demanded she use his mobile phone to speak to her family so he could monitor her calls, shattering her confidence.
Threats and violence
On 24 May, the woman tried to escape but Morgan pursued her, struck her with the back of his hand, elbowed her in the face, slammed her against a wardrobe, and suffocated her. He also picked up a knife and made threats. Later at a pub, he warned her: 'I have got a barrister. You take me to court and I'll make sure you lose everything.'
The woman spoke to the pub manager, who called the police. She hid in the staff area until officers arrived. Morgan was arrested and later charged.
Previous convictions
Morgan had five previous domestic-related offences against another woman, including controlling and coercive behaviour, assault causing actual bodily harm, and two counts of intentional suffocation. He was sentenced to two years and three months in prison in 2024.
In mitigation, Jane Rapin said Morgan expressed genuine remorse and felt deeply ashamed. 'He simply can't stop thinking about how sorry he is that she found herself in this relationship,' she told the court.
Recorder Alistair MacDonald KC said: 'A custodial sentence is entirely merited in this case. No other form of sentence is appropriate.'
Morgan was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison and issued a 10-year restraining order.
