Man told partner he wanted to make her children orphans

A 28-year-old man who told a woman he wanted to make her children orphans while attacking her has been jailed.

Patrick Mongan strangled his partner until she passed out and, when she came round, hit her with a shower head and forced her face into water.

The attack followed a disagreement at their home in Cambourne, on the evening of June 11.

Mongan, who had been drinking, pushed the victim hard against a wall and she fled to the bathroom for safety, locking herself in.

However, Mongan threatened to kill their dog if she did not open the door and when she did, he had his hands around its throat.

He started to strangle the victim in the bathroom, as well as punching her to the arms and ribs, saying: “I am going to kill you, I want to make your kids orphans.”

A member of the public called the police after hearing a commotion and when officers arrived they arrested Mongan. The victim was in the living room, in pain and trembling with fear.

Mongan, of Hartington Road, Stocton-on-Tees, Durham, was sentenced to two years and six months in prison on Tuesday (September 19) after pleading guilty to actual bodily harm and intentional strangulation. He was also handed a 10-year restraining order.

Detective Constable Louise Kitto said: “This was an absolutely terrifying ordeal for the victim. Mongan’s violent behaviour was despicable, and I’m pleased he has faced justice.

“No person should have to suffer this kind of abuse and I would like to applaud the woman’s bravery in support a prosecution. I would also like to thank members of the public who alerted us to what was happening.

“We would strongly urge anyone who is a victim of domestic abuse, or if you are worried about someone experiencing abuse, to contact police.”

To report concerns or for more advice and support on domestic abuse visit the force’s dedicated web page.