Polegate man jailed after serious domestic assault in Eastbourne
A woman was strangled, punched and kicked after telling the man she was ending their relationship
A man from Polegate has been jailed after carrying out a serious domestic assault in Eastbourne.
Oliver McDonald, 53, of Brookside Avenue, was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court on 25 June.
The court heard that on 3 September 2024, the 64-year-old victim told McDonald she was ending their relationship because of his aggressive behaviour over the previous six months.
The next day, she returned to their shared home to collect her belongings. As she was leaving, McDonald arrived and asked what she was doing with her bags. When she replied she was leaving, he became violent.
He strangled her, punched and kicked her, and took her mobile phone.
She managed to get away and drove to a local police station to report the assault. McDonald followed her there and was arrested on suspicion of non-fatal strangulation and actual bodily harm.
He was later charged with theft, assault by beating, and two counts of strangulation.
McDonald pleaded not guilty at first but later admitted all charges.
He was jailed for two years and nine months, given a 10-year restraining order, and ordered to pay a £228 surcharge.
PC Daniel Turk, who led the investigation, said: “I want to thank the victim and her daughter for their co-operation and support throughout this case.
“The physical, emotional, and financial impact on the victim has been huge and her bravery throughout the investigation has been remarkable.
“This sentencing reflects the severity of the offender’s actions and serves as a reminder that domestic abuse will not be tolerated.”