A Ryde man has avoided a custodial sentence after he intentionally strangled his then-partner, who then attempted to take her own life following the attack.
32-year-old Phil Diamantis, of Warwick Street in Ryde, appeared at the Isle of Wight Crown Court via video link on Friday (23rd October), where he was sentenced for the intentional strangulation of a woman, assault by beating and criminal damage.
Recorder Gibney described the offences as “a first but very serious”.
Addressing the court on Friday, Prosecutor Tim Devlin recalled the events that led up to Diamantis’ arrest.
It was said that at 03:28 on the morning of 7th March, police were called to an address in Ryde where the victim, who feared she was going to die, made a statement saying that the pair were having an argument and so she began to pack the defendant’s things. It was heard that as part of this, she threw one of his tracksuits on the floor.
Mr Devlin went on to describe the vicious rage that ensued, where Diamantis pinned his girlfriend against the airing cupboard and strangled her before going on to break a bookcase within the property.
Following the events of 7th March, the court heard that the victim struggled with her mental health and became suicidal to the point that an attempt to take her own life was made.
At the time, the victim told emergency services, “I know what he is capable of and I think he would kill me.”
Defending Diamantis, Matthew Jolliffe said his client has previous good character and has no previous convictions whatsoever.
Mr Jolliffe assured Recorder Gibney that his client has shown some remorse and has a realistic prospect of rehabilitation within the community, despite admitting that he has suffered with drug and alcohol issues in the past.
When sentencing, Recorder Gibney told Diamantis that it was a “very unattractive incident” and told him he was drinking far too much.
Phil Diamantis was handed an 18-month custodial sentence suspended for 2 years, ordered to comply with an 18-month probation requirement.
He was also made subject to a 5-year restraining order, ordered to complete an accredited programme through probation services and ordered to pay a victim surcharge.
Too many programmes like East Enders portraying this as a normal way of life, fed on a daily basis, full of anger and aggression. Plus drink of course added to the mix.