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Tunbridge Wells domestic abuser jailed after being caught following a police chase through woodland and a river

A police pursuit down a river led to the arrest of a violent bully who beat and tormented his partner.

Luke Seffens was tracked down with the help of a police dog during a foot chase which led officers through woodland and water near Tunbridge Wells.

Luke Seffens, 34, has been jailed. Picture: Kent Police
Luke Seffens, 34, has been jailed. Picture: Kent Police

The 34-year-old was responsible for a period of sustained abuse and threats against a woman, between September and December 2023.

These included random acts of violence, making his victim take photos on her phone to prove where she was and following her to her workplace.

On December 4, 2023, he beat the woman repeatedly during an unprovoked attack in a flat and broke a coffee mug on her head.

He did not let her leave and also made threats to stab and strangle her.

She managed to flee to safety the following day and Seffens was arrested and charged by officers.

He was granted conditional bail by the courts pending the outcome of a trial, however, despite the strict measures imposed, he continued to contact his victim.

On July 31, 2024, he was about to be arrested again in the centre of Tunbridge Wells when he ran away from officers.

The lengthy pursuit was captured on bodyworn footage which showed the patrols and police dog Elsa chasing Seffens into woodland, near Vauxhall Lane, and down a river, where he was successfully detained.

Officers could be heard shouting “hold him” and “get him” during the chase while the suspect, who was not wearing a top, pleaded for them to not let the dog bite him.

Seffens, of Powder Mill Lane, Tunbridge Wells, went on to plead guilty to charges of false imprisonment, engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, escape from lawful custody, criminal damage, and threats to damage property.

He was chased by foot through woodland and a river. Picture: Kent Police
He was chased by foot through woodland and a river. Picture: Kent Police

Charges of intentional strangulation, as well as a further period of controlling and coercive behaviour, were ordered by the court to lie on file.

On January 28, Seffens was sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court to four years and nine months imprisonment. He was also made subject to an indefinite restraining order.

Detective Constable Max Jordan said: “Seffens abused, isolated and tormented his victim during the vast majority of their relationship.

“He used fear, violence and intimidation to exert control over almost every aspect of her life and his actions have caused immeasurable fear and distress.

Officers arrested him following a lengthy pursuit. Picture: Kent Police
Officers arrested him following a lengthy pursuit. Picture: Kent Police

“The victim has shown incredible courage and strength to give evidence and I hope this sentence will afford them the time and space needed to help break away from Seffen’s control and allow her to move on with her life.

“We continue to urge all victims of domestic abuse to come forward, confident in the knowledge they will receive the best possible service.

“Remember, you are not to blame for what is happening and you can report it to us or contact several support organisations who can and will help you.”

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