North York Moors villager jailed after throwing tea in girlfriend's face and driving car towards her
A resident of a conservation village on the fringe of the North York Moors National Park has been jailed after a litany of domestic abuse-related offences, including an incident in which he threw a hot cup of tea into his victim’s face.
Max Midgley, 38, of Hustwaite Road, Coxwold, near Thirsk, was sentenced to 40 months in prison at York Magistrates' Court after pleading guilty to stalking and harassment causing fear of violence. He was also handed an indefinite restraining order.
The court heard the victim had been in a relationship with Midgley for two and a half years and carried out a number of serious incidents of domestic abuse. Midgley was reported to have strangled the victim while making threats to kill her, attempted to push her down stairs, forced entry into a bathroom where she had sought refuge, and pushed her against tiles causing her head to strike the wall.
On other occasions, he spat at the victim and caused injuries including a suspected broken finger and bruising. In a separate assault, he threw a freshly made cup of hot tea into her face, requiring immediate action to prevent scalding.
Following the breakdown of the relationship, Midgley's behaviour continued to escalate. When the victim returned to collect her belongings and leave the address, she later encountered Midgley driving towards her vehicle on a country road. Rather than remaining on his side of the carriageway, Midgley drove directly towards the victim around a bend, forcing her to brake heavily and swerve to avoid a collision.
A police spokeswoman said: "This was a prolonged campaign of abusive, controlling and intimidating behaviour which left the victim fearing for her safety. Nobody should have to experience this kind of conduct.
"Midgley's actions had a devastating impact on the victim and demonstrate how domestic abuse can continue long after a relationship has ended. His behaviour was persistent, frightening and completely unacceptable.
"I would like to commend the victim for the courage and resilience she has shown in reporting these offences and supporting the investigation throughout the court process.
"If you are experiencing abuse, stalking, controlling behaviour or harassment, please know that you are not alone and support is available."
Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, stalking or harassment can report it to police via 101, or 999 in an emergency.