The victim of a violent and controlling man from Sittingbourne has seen him jailed.
During 2022, the woman was in a relationship with Nuno Rodrigues and suffered constant assaults at his hands. The abuse included an incident when Rodrigues forcefully pinned her to the ground whilst placing his hands around her neck. This prevented her from breathing and caused visible bruising.
In addition to attacks at home, the victim suffered injuries and abuse when on holiday abroad with Rodrigues. Whilst in Madeira, it’s reported he assaulted her multiple times causing the woman to permanently lose sensitivity on one side of her mouth. Further incidents included threats with a knife, threats to disclose personal images and multiple occasions when he struck her face.
Threat to kill
On 5 December 2022, he took hold of her throat, threatened to kill her if she called the police and prevented her from leaving. When the victim did manage to get away, she disclosed what had been happening to a work colleague and the police were notified.
Rodrigues, from Newington was arrested on the following day. He was charged and immediately remanded in custody. At Maidstone Crown Court he later pleaded guilty to engaging in coercive and controlling behaviour and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. On Tuesday 19 December 2023, the 28-year-old was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment. He also be subject to an indefinite restraining order on his release.
PC Chelsea Clare, of the North Kent Vulnerability Investigation Team, said:
‘This man is an abusive bully who tried to control and restrict his victim’s life, regularly assaulted her and made constant threats over several months. This was an appalling ordeal for a woman who has suffered lasting injuries as a result.
‘Rodrigues is now in jail and no longer a threat to the victim who has shown immense courage in helping us bring this individual to justice. I would urge anyone who suffers harm and abuse at the hands of a partner to seek help from a friend, trusted colleague or the police. We will listen to you and take steps to prevent you coming to further harm at the hands of a violent perpetrator.’