Exeter man jailed for strangling partner

Michael Lockhart, a 32-year-old man from Exeter, has been sentenced to two years and 10 months in prison following a series of violent assaults against his partner of 16 years.

During a court hearing at Exeter Crown Court, it was revealed that Lockhart attacked the woman on her birthday, which included dragging her by her hair and strangling her. The victim testified that the assault was part of a pattern of abuse, noting that Lockhart had previously caused her injuries such as black eyes and facial bleeding. The court heard that Lockhart had also attempted to isolate and control her through belittling behavior and physical violence, including an incident where he threw a PlayStation at her.

Lockhart pleaded guilty to charges of battery, strangulation, and actual bodily harm (ABH). Judge David Evans noted Lockhart’s “ugly attitude” when delivering the sentence. Lockhart has prior convictions for arson, domestic violence, and criminal damage.