A 24-YEAR-OLD man has been jailed for assaulting an ex-partner on Valentine’s Day last year – and criminal damage.

Tyler Thornhill, of Standfast Road, Henbury, Bristol, was sentenced at Salisbury Crown Court on April 29 after previously pleading guilty to two counts of ABH and two counts of criminal damage.

On February 14 last year, armed with a baseball bat, Thornhill forced his way into his ex-partner’s home and grabbed her around the throat before taking some belongings.

He was sentenced to 30 months in prison, ordered to pay a surcharge of £228, and given a 10-year restraining order.

In a statement read out in court his victim said: “I constantly check multiple times through the night that doors are locked, curtains are shut, lights are off and even go as far as sellotaping the letterbox in fear that he would set fire to my house while I was asleep.

“I never thought I would find the courage to report the abuse simply because I was too scared to find out the repercussions, he promised me that there was no place I could run or hide to where he wouldn’t be able to get to me.”

Local Crime Investigator, Suzanne Stone, said: “Thornhill put his victim through three years of abuse, including physical and mental.

“His behaviour and actions caused her to be in fear of repercussions, to the point they would not sleep and even caused them to move home.

“The impact of all these things stripped the victim of their confidence and trust, something which should never be allowed to happen to anyone.

“I welcome the sentencing that has been given to the suspect, especially the 10-year restraining order that has been put in place. I hope the victim can now finally start to feel safe, and begin to move forwards with their life.

“Thornhill’s victim has shown great strength throughout the investigation, I commend her bravery for reaching out and standing up to this unacceptable behaviour.

“I urge anyone in any situation where they are being subjected to abuse to seek help and support, and stand up to the perpetrators of these crimes.”