Man who punched, headbutted, and choked partner jailed for 15 months
The judge noted the letter of apology before the court and the sum of €1,400 offered as a token of remorse. Stock picture
A man who punched, headbutted, and choked his then-partner until she almost lost consciousness has been given a sentence of two years with the final nine months suspended.
The woman suffered severe bruising to her head, face, chest, neck, and limbs. In the weeks and months after the attack, she experienced nightmares of the attack and struggled with insomnia.
Her mental health suffered and she told the court that she is a shell of the person she used to be.
“I am starting to wonder if I’ll ever fully recover,” she said.
Jonathan Cooke, aged 29, of The Moyle, Prospect Hill, Dublin 11, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm at the woman’s home on June 30, 2024.
The accused punched her repeatedly in the face and then choked her so forcefully that she believed she was going to lose consciousness.
She begged him to stop hitting her but he continued the attack.
The accused was arrested and during interview he told gardaí that he had headbutted the injured party but claimed she had struck him first. He made no admissions in relation to choking or punching her.
Garda Michael Kearns testified that the injured party denied ever striking the accused.
Judge Orla Crowe said what had happened was a gross violation of the woman’s right to bodily integrity and safety in her own home. She said that no matter what was going on or how bad or toxic the relationship was, nothing justifies what was done to the injured party.
She said the violence had been perpetrated by an intimate partner and had grave consequences for her.
She noted the letter of apology before the court and the sum of €1,400 offered as a token of remorse. She noted Cooke had a difficult background and was now in new relationship.
She imposed a sentence of two years and suspended the final nine months on condition he undergo probation supervision. He is to undergo assessment for an intimate partner violence programme and engage in training and supports as directed.
She adjourned the case for mention next week to allow the injured party to consider if she wishes to receive the token of remorse.
The judge said if she is not willing, the money will be given to a charity dealing with violence in this arena.
Garda Kearns agreed with defence counsel that the guilty plea was of benefit to the injured party.
Defence counsel said his client had experienced a difficult upbringing, homelessness, and instability before the offending.
Counsel said the relationship had been loving but chaotic, with both parties facing significant personal difficulties. The accused had "lost it" on the day and accepted full responsibility, apologised profusely, and was genuinely remorseful, counsel said.
Counsel also handed in character references and said the accused was attempting to rebuild his life and secure employment.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
