Abusive Middlesbrough man jailed.

A Middlesbrough man who was arrested by Cleveland Police as he flew back into the country has been jailed after being found guilty of violent offences against a woman.

Thomas Patton (29) of Pallister Park knew officers wanted to speak to him about them however he evaded capture - until 16^th October last year when he was arrested as he arrived at Newcastle Airport.

He was interviewed and subsequently charged with three counts of assault ABH, two common assaults, intimidation, and engaging in coercive and controlling behaviour.

At court in November Patton denied all the charges and he was remanded in prison until a two-day trial towards the end of March.

Patton was convicted of all seven offences, and this week he was jailed for three and a half years.

He’ll also be subject to a five-year restraining order.

Speaking after sentencing Detective Constable Gary Liddell said: “The physical assaults Patton carried out left the victim in great fear, and the mental distress caused by his coercive and controlling behaviour only added to this.

“Patton knew he was wanted and did all he could to evade police, but we were determined to arrest him and bring him to justice. Although he refused to admit what he had done, the court has now found him guilty and justice has been served. I do hope this brings a degree of comfort to this brave woman and I wish her well for the future.

“Tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for policing nationally and here in Cleveland we’ll do all we can to deal with perpetrators, whilst providing victims with all available support.”

If you are experiencing or have experienced violence or other abuse, you can contact Cleveland Police at any time of day or night via the 101 number (always use 999 in an emergency).

Advice on domestic abuse (including details of specialist local agencies who can also offer practical support, information and advice) is available on the Cleveland Police website: www.cleveland.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/daa/domestic-abuse/

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