A bully grabbed his girlfriend by the throat and plunged her head into a bath full of water.

Stephen Ives, from Tunbridge Wells, has been jailed for more than two years after he pleaded guilty to a string of violent offences which also included biting his victim.

Ives, 34, was responsible for prolonged physical and mental abuse over almost a year between June 2020 and April 2021.

In one sickening incident, he followed his partner after she had filled up a bath with water. Ives grabbed her by the throat with both hands and pushed her under water, so her head was fully submerged.

After leaving their home, Ives demanded a phone from a neighbour which he used to send the woman abusive messages.

On his return, he continued to beat and torment his victim. As she attempted to call police, Ives emptied a bin onto her.

He was arrested shortly afterwards and an investigation found he had been responsible for a catalogue of abuse and assaults.

Appearing before Maidstone Crown Court, Ives, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to four counts of assault, occasioning actual bodily harm, and was sentenced to two years and three months in prison.

PC Dan Holding, of the West Kent Vulnerability Investigation team, said: "Ives continuously abused, isolated and tormented his victim during the vast majority of their relationship. He has subjected her to the most appalling violence, which was often fuelled by alcohol.

"I would like to thank and commend the victim in this case, who has shown incredible courage and strength to give her evidence, having also endured relentless mental anguish, often intended to humiliate and degrade her.

"Domestic violence is a priority for Kent Police and nobody should ever feel they have nowhere to turn. I would encourage anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation or relationship to report it to someone and get help.

"There is a range of support and information available, just phone us or ask a trusted friend or relative to do it.

"Nobody should ever feel they don’t have the option to walk away or get help."

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