Partner Jailed After Woman Feared Death During Drunken Assaults

A court has been informed that a woman feared her violent partner would kill her during a drunken outburst. Alasdair Johnston, 39, from Carlisle, strangled and headbutted the woman and destroyed her possessions after becoming intoxicated on shopping excursions, according to proceedings at Newcastle Crown Court. He pleaded guilty to charges of intentional strangulation, assault, and criminal damage, receiving a 20-month prison sentence. In a submitted statement, Johnston’s now ex-partner expressed that she was “frightened” of his potential actions, and the presiding judge commented that he could have caused her death. Prosecutor Lucy Todd stated that on October 31, while the couple was shopping in Newcastle, Johnston became progressively intoxicated after consuming 10 cans of lager. Upon their return to the victim’s residence, he initiated an assault, seizing her by the throat with both hands, which led to her momentarily losing consciousness. The court was told that when she grasped his beard, he headbutted her in the eye. The woman, who had contacted a friend for assistance, subsequently secured herself within her bedroom. Ms Todd reported that Johnston offered an apology several days afterward, claiming he was intoxicated and unaware of his actions. The court was informed that he again became intoxicated during an outing together on November 7. According to Ms Todd, upon their return home, the woman concealed herself behind a living room chair as Johnston engaged in a destructive spree, shattering a mirror crafted for her by her father and other ornaments holding significant sentimental value. He escaped through a window upon the arrival of police but was apprehended a short time later in Prudhoe. In a statement presented to the court, the woman testified that she had lived in “constant fear” of Johnston due to his unpredictable and violent behavior when intoxicated. She stated her apprehension about his actions while drunk, asserting: “I really do believe he will kill me when he is in such a rage.” Recorder Alistair MacDonald KC declared that only immediate imprisonment was suitable for Johnston, residing on Henderson Road in Currock, noting that he had the potential to kill the woman during the act of strangulation.