Man from Godmanchester jailed for over a year for violent assaults on girlfriend
The abuser was given a ten-year restraining order.
Last updated 6th Feb 2026
Ben Doughty, a 31-year-old from Pinfold Lane, Godmanchester, has been sentenced to one year and ten months in prison for the violent assaults on his girlfriend.
In August last year, Doughty repeatedly attacked his girlfriend, including smashing a mobile phone into her head.
He pleaded guilty to two counts of actual bodily harm and one count of common assault.
Additionally, Doughty was given a ten-year restraining order preventing him from contacting his victim.
The court heard how Doughty dragged her around her flat, hit her legs, and pinned her to the bed by her neck, making it difficult for her to breathe.
Numerous arguments broke out between the couple, usually triggered by Doughty's dissatisfaction with something he saw on her phone.
The victim had to record an incident on her phone, during which Doughty struck her face and allegedly caused a broken nose.
Peterborough Crown Court issued the sentencing on Friday, 30th January.
Doughty pleaded not guilty to intentional strangulation, a charge that will remain on file.
Detective Constable Amanda Sampaio said: “Doughty’s violent outbursts caused the victim to fear for her safety on many occasions.
“It was clear she was frightened of him, and it became evident to us the assaults had been happening for some time. The victim had stopped seeing friends because of Doughty’s reactions to any contact she had with people other than him.
“I hope Doughty will use his time in prison to reflect on his actions and realise that he needs help with his anger. Domestic abuse should never be tolerated and I encourage anyone in similar circumstances to report the attacks to the police as soon as possible.”
Anyone experiencing domestic abuse can seek help through advice and reporting pages, which also demonstrate how to hide search activity on this topic.