Abusive boyfriend jailed for 'cowardly' coercive behaviour

Neil James Golding, aged 39, assaulted his partner, rubbed a cream cake in her face and poured a drink over her, Bournemouth Crown Court heard.

Golding, of Fordingbridge, pleaded guilty to charges of coercive and controlling behaviour against his ex-girlfriend, assault by beating, common assault and criminal damage.

Judge Jonathan Fuller QC said the defendant used language which was designed to “belittle, humiliate and degrade” the victim.

Prosecutor Mike Mason said the victim had faced abuse from the defendant over a prolonged period.

Mr Mason said in one incident Golding set her dressing gown on fire while she was wearing it.

“If she had been cooking dinner he did not like he would throw it against the wall,” Mr Mason said.

The prosecutor said he hurled expletive insults at the woman and told her she was a “waste of space”.

“She feared violence so many times it became the norm for her,” Mr Mason said.

The two assault and single criminal damage charges related to an incident on January 27.

In police interview the defendant went no comment to all questions asked.

He had 12 previous convictions for 37 offences.

Mr Mason said the conduct was intended to “humiliate and degrade the victim”.

The sentencing hearing took place at Bournemouth Crown Court

Mitigating, Nick Robinson said his client was responsible for what he accepted was “cowardly behaviour”.

The barrister said Golding had a lack of self-control from a “very serious underlying anger management problem”.

The court heard that the defendant had said: “I do not understand whether I drink because I am angry or I am angry because I drink.”

Mr Robinson said: “There is something about this defendant that would be wasted in prison.”

Experienced probation officer Mark Morgan told the court Golding had taken action to address his alcohol issues.

He said the defendant’s rehabilitation would be “considerably enhanced” were he to remain in the community, although he added that he did not think the offender would particularly struggle in prison.

Mr Morgan said Golding seemed “intent and very focused on changing his ways”.

Mr Robinson asked the judge to avoid sending the defendant straight to prison, urging him to allow Golding to continue his steps to address his problems in society.

However, Judge Fuller QC said: “In my view the suspension of this sentence would not mark the seriousness of the offending.”

Golding was jailed for two years and issued with a seven-year restraining order.

Neil James Golding, 39 and of Fordingbridge

As he was sent down the defendant blew a kiss to his current partner, who was sat in the public gallery.

Police Constable Amy Bowkis, of Dorset Police, said Golding used "unacceptable violence and abuse"

"We are committed to ensuring those who commit these kind of despicable offences are held to account," PC Bowkis said.

The officer praised the courage of the victim, adding that their bravedy is "commendable".

PC Bowkis said: “I hope this case sends a clear message that we will support all victims of abuse and investigate all reports thoroughly to ensure offenders face the consequences of their actions.”

Anyone who has been a victim of domestic abuse or know someone who is being abused, should report it to Dorset Police and this can be done in confidence. 

If abuse is in progress and someone is in immediate danger, call 999. Otherwise, contact the force at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101.                                                          

Crimes can also be reported anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

For more information on help and advice around domestic abuse as well as details of agencies that can offer support visit www.dorset.police.uk/da