A man described as ‘cowardly’ has been released from court following his sentencing for a brutal assault on his former girlfriend, during which he forcibly inserted his thumbs into her eyes.
Layton Bowman, aged 20 and hailing from Blurton, Stoke-on-Trent, attacked his ex-partner, strangled her, and brandished a knife after she informed him of her decision to end their relationship. Upon his arrest the following day, he spat at a police officer and was found in possession of cannabis. While in custody, Bowman further displayed unruly behavior by urinating in his cell.
He received a nine-month prison sentence at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on Monday, but was immediately released due to the time served in custody awaiting trial.
Bowman admitted to multiple charges, including assault, intentional strangulation, wielding an offensive weapon, common assault, attacking an emergency worker, possession of cannabis, and causing damage to property valued at under £5,000.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Bowman aggressively confronted his victim at her residence, threatening violence and physically assaulting her. He then coerced her into leaving with him, exhibiting erratic behavior along the way.
Prosecutor Alison Whalley detailed the events, citing a disturbing incident where Bowman intruded into the victim’s home, insulted her, and subjected her to physical harm, including poking his thumbs into her eyes. The victim was also subjected to further assaults on subsequent days, leading to Bowman’s subsequent arrest and the additional charge of assaulting officers during the arrest.
Despite the gravity of his actions, Bowman’s defense lawyer, Steve Hennessy, emphasized his client’s remorse and claimed that Bowman had learned from the experience, expressing intentions to seek employment in the near future.
Addressing Bowman in court, Recorder Robert Smith condemned his abusive behavior towards the victim, warning him of the consequences should he fail to reform his conduct. Due to time already spent in custody, Bowman was released, although the judge expressed regret at not being able to impose a lengthier sentence.