A Gateshead man has been jailed for attacking his then partner and strangling her, despite the victim saying she forgives him and believes he deserves a second chance.
Reece Sweet, 23, previously of Stretford Court, Gateshead, appeared at Newcastle Crown Court on Monday, where he was sentenced for offences including strangulation and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The court heard that the incident took place in July 2024, during what was described as a "troubled" relationship.
Attack and guilty pleas
The court was told that the woman had been asleep when Sweet entered the room and flipped the mattress over, causing her to fall to the floor. He then threatened her and assaulted her before strangling her for a few seconds, to a point where her breathing became restricted and her vision became blurry.
Sweet pleaded guilty to strangulation and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He also admitted a charge of witness intimidation relating to him threatening the victim and her new partner, and asking her to withdraw the allegations.
Victim's statement and sentence
At the time of sentencing, Sweet was already serving a 44-month prison sentence for false imprisonment, assault and dangerous driving unrelated to the latest offences. He was given an additional 30 months in custody.
The sentence was handed down even though the victim made a statement saying she no longer felt threatened by Sweet and forgave him. The court was told her statement had not been made under duress. The victim said there had been no contact between herself and the defendant for over a year. She added: "When I met Reece, he was the most genuine, loving and caring man. Myself and Reece were inseparable."
She said the defendant had experienced difficulties in his personal life and had mental health difficulties. She believed that if he had received the correct support, the offences could have been avoided. She added: "I would like to say I forgive Reece and he deserves a second chance in life. I know that I'm at no further threat from Reece and I hope you take this into consideration."
Judge's ruling and licence terms
Sweet's barrister said the defendant had been in custody for around 19 months and during that time he had "tried to better himself". It was also said the defendant had faced difficulties in his younger life.
Judge Gavin Doig acknowledged the victim's statement but said he must pass sentence in relation to the seriousness of the offences. Giving him the 30-month prison sentence, he told Sweet: "She confirms there has been no contact between you and her for over one year now. She offers confirmation of your mental health issues. Sentence must be determined by the seriousness of offences, not the wishes of the victim."
Sweet was further told that when he is released from jail, he will be on licence. And if he commits any further offences on licence, he risks another spell behind bars.
