Whittlesey man jailed for abusive and controlling behaviour towards ex-partner
The 35-year-old was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison
A 35-year-old man from Whittlesey near Peterborough has been jailed for a series of abusive and controlling actions against his ex-partner.
Leonard Evans began displaying controlling behaviour shortly after entering a relationship with the victim in November 2024.
He dictated various aspects of her life, including her appearance and social media use, and regularly accused her of infidelity.
While remanded for a previous conviction for affray, Evans continued to emotionally manipulate the victim through frequent phone calls and made her feel unable to leave home or socialise.
In February 2025, following his release from prison, Evans physically assaulted the victim by punching and strangling her.
He subsequently made threats to burn down her house and that of her friend.
In July, he verbally abused the victim during a day out, escalated to physical violence, and struck her while she was driving.
Evans, of Richardson Way, was arrested and pleaded guilty to coercive control, intentional strangulation, assault by beating, and threatening to damage or destroy property.
On 9th October at Peterborough Crown Court, he was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison and issued with an indefinite restraining order.
Detective Constable Maisie Pratt, the investigating officer, praised the courage of the victim in coming forward and asserting that sustained abusive and controlling behaviour is unacceptable.
She encouraged victims of domestic abuse to seek support, stating that such reports are always taken seriously.