Wearside ex-serviceman assaulted his partner three times

Ross Wilson attacked the woman on three occasions while being abusive and controlling for around five years of their relationship.

Teesside Crown Court heard how the 36-year-old was medically discharged from the military due to the impact his service had on his mental health.

Annelise Haugstad, prosecuting, said: “The relationship was experiencing difficulties primarily because the defendant was using alcohol and that led to arguments where he would blame her.”

The court heard how Wilson grabbed the victim by the throat twice while verbally abusing her and on one occasion it happened in front of the victim’s son.

Ms Haugstad on another occasion the defendant punched her in the face when she refused to go out during the night to get him more booze.

In a victim impact statement, the woman said his behaviour had turned her life upside down.

She said: “I became unable to make simple decision for myself without seeking reassurance that it was the right one.”

Wilson, of Longlands Drive, Houghton-le-Spring, Wearside, pleaded guilty to coercive and controlling behaviour between December 2017 and November 2022.

Cainan Lonsdale, mitigating, said his client had began drinking heavily during Covid as he struggled with his mental health as a result as his time in the military.

He added: “He has always shown a degree of remorse in this case and when I was reading his messages to him, he asked me to stop and became quite upset by that.

“He understands that the victim didn’t have the same luxury, He is ashamed by the way he spoke to her at that time and how he treated her during the relationship.”

Mr Lonsdale said the former serviceman was in the process of securing a place at a residential rehabilitation centre.

Recorder Ayesha Smart sentenced Wilson to 15 months in custody suspended for 15 months and ordered him to attend 30 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

“This offence took place over a prolonged period of five years,” she said. “It was committed in an intimate relationship, which started off well, but soured particularly when you consumed alcohol.

“You assaulted your partner three times during that period.”

Wilson was ordered to pay £1,000 in compensation and court costs.

He was also made subject to a 15-year restraining order.