A domestic abuser who strangled his partner has been jailed for two years for coercive control.
Sussex Police said: “Steven Burchett, 49, assaulted, abused, and choked the victim. His victim described living in constant fear and anxiety because of his behaviour.
“Burchett assaulted her and left her with injuries and made violent threats towards her.
“The victim reported the abuse to the police and said: ‘Men who threaten to kill women do sometimes go ahead and kill women.’”
At Hove Crown Court on Monday 28 September, Recorder Alice Sims jailed Burchett for two years coercive control and intentional strangulation.
Burchett, of Heathy Brown, Peacehaven, was also made the subject of a restraining order for five years.
He was ordered not to contact Emma Bannister directly or indirectly for any reason, not to go to Waldron, near Heathfield, or any place “where you know or believe Emma Bannister to be”.
The court was told that the behaviour happened from March to August this year when police received a 999 call.
Sussex Police said; “During one incident, while intoxicated, Burchett pushed the victim to the floor. On another occasion he choked her and bombarded her with vile abusive messages.
“The victim chose to pursue a prosecution.”
She said: “I can understand why many women choose not to pursue this course of action. I just wanted it to go away and pretend that it never happened, but it did.
“The thought of this person still being allowed to be out and free is honestly absolutely terrifying.
“I chose this course of action for the women who have come before me and to protect those future women who he may continue to harm.”
After the case, PC Tessa Heath said: “I want to thank the victim for coming forward to report her experience to the police to ensure a dangerous offender was charged and brought before the courts.
“Tackling violence against women and girls is a top priority for Sussex Police and we were determined to get justice in this case.
“I would encourage any victims of abusive behaviour to come forward and report it to the police.”
