Michael Winder, 31, of Hollings Crescent, Wallsend, hid a recording device under his ex-girlfriend's bed and then assaulted her after hearing something he did not like. The incident occurred on November 15 last year, when the victim visited Winder's home to return a t-shirt. He insisted she stay, and they slept in the same room.
Attack after recording device discovery
Winder woke the woman demanding to know who she had slept with the previous night. He threatened to rip her hair out, grabbed her by the throat, covered her mouth, and pulled her hair as she tried to leave. He also smashed her mobile phone before she managed to escape.
The court heard that Winder and the victim had known each other for 16 years and had been in a relationship for nine. They broke up in 2025 but remained friends. During the assault, the woman scratched his face and managed to get out of his grip, but he stopped her from leaving the room. She pushed past and tried to get out the front door, but he grabbed her, pulling the back of her hair and ripping out an extension.
Threats and messages
After the woman fled, Winder sent her abusive messages, including threats to kill himself and one saying: "On Monday morning, at work, I would not want to be you." In a statement, the victim said she felt anxious about going to work and scared to do anything in her own home.
Winder pleaded guilty to criminal damage and stalking, and was found guilty after trial of intentional strangulation and assault by beating. Stephen Davies prosecuted at Newcastle Magistrates' Court, and Stewart Hay defended, noting Winder's mental health issues and role as primary carer for his daughter.
Committed to Crown Court
Magistrates decided their sentencing powers were insufficient and committed Winder to Newcastle Crown Court. He was released on conditional bail to appear there on December 3.
