South Tyneside woman's bravery leads to 35-month prison term for 'violent bully'
The woman's decision to report the attack allowed police to begin a thorough investigation, culminating a 35-month prison term and 10-year restraining order.
Police have praised a South Tyneside woman whose bravery in reporting a man who brutally attacked her led to him being jailed.
They said her decision to reveal Sean Smith’s savagery had allowed them to begin an investigation which culminated in his crown court sentencing.
And they said they hoped his prosecution – and 35-month prison term - was further proof the Northumbria force was committed to tackling domestic abuse.
That included a reminder that anyone concerned a partner may have a history of domestic violence can check with them via the provisions of Clare’s Law, also known as the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme.
Smith, 38, of Montrose Crescent, Gateshead, who has 50 previous convictions, committed the sustained and brutal attack on his ex-partner in South Tyneside in March.
After they argued, he bloodied her nose with a punch to her face and then climbed on top of her and headbutted her.
As she attempted to flee by running down stairs, Smith kicked her in the back, causing her to fall down the remainder of the flight.
He then blocked the door, stopping her from leaving and continuing to punch her, pull her hair and stamping on her head and neck.
The woman sought refuge in a friend’s house who then took her to hospital where a report was made to police.
Smith was arrested and days later, charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, to which he pleaded guilty at Newcastle Crown Court.
He was also handed a 10-year restraining order to further protect the woman.
“A violent bully.”
Detective Constable Abbi Weir, of South Tyneside’s Criminal Investigation Department, who led the investigation, said: “Sean Smith is a violent bully who subjected this woman to a particularly horrendous and violent assault.
“I am so proud and appreciative of her decision to call the police that day and allow us to begin our thorough investigation to put her abuser before the courts.
“I hope the sentence imposed today can help her move forward and rebuild – if that’s at all possible.”
Det Con Weir added: “Tackling domestic abuse, and the safeguarding of vulnerable people, is a priority for Northumbria Police – and Smith’s sentence is proof of our commitment to doing this.
“Now, everyone knows that Smith is a violent domestic abuser. But it’s important to remember there are ways you can find out if a new or prospective partner has a history of domestic abuse.
“Under the Clare’s Law scheme, you can ask us whether a partner has a history of violence so you can make a decision about whether to continue that relationship.
“Please search ‘Clare’s Law’ on our website – it could save your life.”
Northumbria Police said anyone who needs support around domestic abuse or wishes to make a report should visit www.northumbria.police.uk or send a direct message via its social media.
Clare’s Law is named after Clare Wood, 36, who was murdered by her abusive ex-boyfriend in 2009.
It allows applicants to request information from police about their current or ex-partner, if they are concerned they may have been abusive in the past and may pose a future risk.