Domestic abuser jailed for coercive control and strangulation

A woman has spoken out about how the domestic abuse she experienced from a former partner has left her physically and emotionally scarred.

The victim of Adrian Jones, 46, has talked about the impact the abuse has on her, after he was jailed for controlling and coercive behaviour and strangulation.

Jones was arrested in October 2023 after threatening his ex-partner during an altercation where police were called to an address in Bedford.

During the altercation, Jones physically strangled the victim, leaving her unconscious and fearing for her life and with severe injuries.

When talking to officers, the victim disclosed that there was a long history of controlling behaviour which happened over a number of years. On many occasions Jones would threaten her, going as far to pick up knives and assault her.

She disclosed that the manipulative nature of incidents escalated, especially once they had separated.

Jones, of no fixed abode, was found guilty of controlling and coercive behaviour, intentional strangulation, and breaching a restraining order and was sentenced on 10 September at Luton Crown Court to four years in jail, plus a further five years on licence upon his release.

He was also handed an unlimited time restraining order.

In a personal statement from the victim she describes her ordeal and trauma caused by Jones's actions. It read: “I am not the woman that I once was, I am now a woman that bares the mental, physical, emotional and financial scars of the abuse.”

She added: “This is a serious assault where I thought that I could lose my life. There is without doubt that Adrian did all that he did with intent and proceeded to lie to the court.”

Detective Sergeant Darren Armitage from the force’s domestic abuse team, Emerald, said: “There is no place for domestic abuse in society and we are committed to bringing perpetrators to justice.

“Jones could not accept the relationship was over, and he showed no regard for his actions and the life long impact his actions have on the victim.

“I would like to commend the victim for her immense bravery in working with officers throughout the investigation and during trial, where she had to relive her experience. I would also like to commend Victim Engagement Officer Carly Webb and DC Isobel Morrish for their dedication to support the victim throughout the investigation.

“We know in Bedfordshire there are women who feel unsafe in their own homes and they are living in fear. We have a dedicated team, with specialist officers working alongside our partners, who will work with victims every step of the way to ensure they are supported. We remain dedicated to making our county a hostile place for perpetrators of domestic abuse.

“If someone is making you feel unsafe, we are here to help when you are ready. It is never too late to report or come forward.”

For information on the work the force is doing in tackling male violence against women and girls, please visit MVAWG website page.