Judge Commends Courage of Victim Impact Statement in Partner Assault Sentencing

A Co Antrim man who attacked his partner in her own home on Christmas Eve was today (Wednesday) jailed for a total of 15 months.

Ryan Evans Jailed for Assault

Ryan Evans, 33, of Doonbeg Drive in Rathcoole, Newtownabbey, was sentenced to 26 months, with 13 months in custody and 13 on probation, for non-fatal strangulation and common assault. He received an additional two months for breaching a suspended sentence. The court heard that on Christmas Eve, Evans attacked his partner at her home after falling asleep on her sofa. He grabbed her by the hair, slapped her, snapped her bra strap, and strangled her. The victim managed to escape and seek help from a neighbor. Evans was later arrested by the police.

Previous Convictions and Defense

Evans has a history of 42 previous convictions, including serious assault and assaulting police. His defense acknowledged his fault and regret for the incident, urging for a community-based order. The judge commended the victim for a "very moving" Victim Impact Statement, where she forgave Evans for the attack.