Man Sentenced for Assaulting Ex-Partner and Stalking Her

A man from Folkestone has been sentenced after a series of violent incidents involving his former partner, culminating in an assault that left her with a concussion. Tyrone Tanner, aged 35, was found guilty of multiple charges, including stalking and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The court heard how Tanner’s aggressive behavior escalated after his girlfriend ended their relationship following a troubled holiday.

During a court appearance, it was revealed that Tanner assaulted the woman on May 11, 2023, after she expressed her desire to spend time with her children. He confronted her at her home, where he forcefully pushed a door into her face when she attempted to close it. This action resulted in a significant injury, including a large lump on her eyebrow and a concussion.

Tanner’s behavior did not stop there. Following the breakup, he repeatedly contacted the victim through phone calls and messages, ultimately leading her to feel stalked. He even attempted to win her back by sending flowers and ordering an engagement ring to her home, despite her clear requests for no further contact.

Ms. Julie Farbrace, the prosecuting attorney, outlined Tanner’s history of violence, noting that he had previous convictions related to domestic violence. The court was informed that Tanner had previously served time for assaulting another partner. Even after the victim ended their relationship, he refused to accept the decision, leading to further harassment.

The situation escalated after a text from the victim in May, in which she stated she had enough of his behavior. Instead of honoring her request for space, Tanner appeared at her front door. When she attempted to shut it, he pushed it back into her face, leading to injuries that required medical attention.

Tanner initially denied the allegations but changed his pleas to guilty when he appeared again on June 19, 2023. He was remanded in custody, and a pre-sentencing report was ordered before his next appearance at Margate Magistrates’ Court on July 10, 2023. During the proceedings, Tanner claimed that his actions were reckless, not intended to cause harm, though the court found the evidence against him compelling.

The magistrates noted that Tanner’s behavior was aggravated by the presence of children during the incidents. In a plea for leniency, his defense attorney, Ian Bond, argued for a community-based punishment, citing Tanner’s remorse and mental health issues, including ADHD and an unstable personality disorder.

Ultimately, the court sentenced Tanner to 32 weeks in jail, suspended for 18 months, and mandated him to complete 20 rehabilitation sessions along with a stepwise relationship course. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £307 in court costs and a victim surcharge. A 12-month restraining order was also issued, preventing him from approaching or contacting the victim.

This case highlights the serious consequences of domestic violence and the importance of protecting victims from their abusers. The court has taken steps to ensure the safety of the woman and her children following these traumatic events.