Man jailed for violent campaign against Norwich victim
Boyko Panayotov sentenced to 32 months for assault and threats
Boyko Panayotov, 42, has been sentenced to 32 months in prison following a violent campaign and series of threats against another man in Norwich.
Panayotov, who has no fixed address, was sentenced at Norwich Crown Court on 15th October after pleading guilty to charges including assault causing actual bodily harm (ABH), intentional strangulation, and making threats to kill.
The offences mainly targeted a man in his 40s, whose ordeal began with an assault on 4th November 2025. The victim was brought to a police station by a friend after Panayotov attacked him and forced him into a van where he was punched, kicked, and choked.
Panayotov's actions forced the victim to serve as his private chauffeur over a year-long period.
The accused also threatened a former landlord, touring shops to purchase tools after photographing the landlord's property with intent to cause harm.
At the court hearing, the victim described how Panayotov's actions left him anxious and physically injured, expressing relief at knowing Panayotov is now in prison.
Detective Constable Andrew McKay praised the victim's bravery in coming forward to report the abuse, which deeply affected Norwich's Bulgarian community.
McKay expressed hope that the sentencing allows the victim and community to rebuild without fear, and emphasised the police commitment to addressing such behaviour.