Man from Letchworth Garden City jailed for coercive and controlling behaviour
Daniel Levy has been given a prison sentence for abusive actions towards an ex-partner
A man from Letchworth Garden City has been sentenced to two years and eight months in prison for coercive and controlling behaviour towards his ex-partner.
Daniel Levy, 40, of Chasten Hill, was found guilty and sentenced at Luton Crown Court alongside receiving a 10-year restraining order.
Levy subjected the victim to ongoing abuse, including interrogating her whereabouts, name-calling, attempting to control her finances, and displaying violent and verbally aggressive behavior.
The victim reported Levy’s actions to Bedfordshire Police after finding the strength to end the toxic relationship.
Her personal impact statement, read in court, detailed the profound effect of his actions: “This experience has had a significant and lasting impact on my life.
“Loud noises or shouting can overwhelm me, and I often feel the need to leave the room immediately.
"Certain triggers like seeing a van similar to his or hearing a voice that sounds like his can send me into a state of panic.
"I find myself checking outside, fearing he might be nearby, even though I know logically he isn’t.
“I feel weak, even though I know I’ve survived something incredibly difficult.
"I walk around on eggshells, and even though he’s in prison, I still feel trapped by the fear and trauma he caused.
"I want to move forward. I want to enjoy my life again. But right now, it’s hard.”
Investigation Officer Dips Wheeler, from Bedfordshire Police, emphasized the often-hidden nature of coercive and controlling behavior, stating, “Coercive and controlling behaviour isn’t always obvious. Victims may not recognise it as domestic abuse, and signs are often hidden from those outside the relationship.
“Levy’s actions had a profound impact on the victim’s daily life, leaving her struggling to sleep and experiencing nightmares and flashbacks.
“I am pleased he has received a custodial sentence, and I want to commend the victim for her courage in coming forward and reporting his behaviour. Her strength has ensured he is now being held accountable.”
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