A man described as ‘cowardly’ has been released from court following his sentencing for a brutal assault on his former girlfriend, during which he forcefully pressed his thumbs into her eyes.
Layton Bowman, a 20-year-old resident of Blurton in Stoke-on-Trent, attacked his ex-girlfriend by strangling her, threatening her with a knife, and spitting at a police officer upon his arrest the next day. Additionally, he was found in possession of cannabis and caused damage to his police cell by urinating inside.
Although sentenced to nine months in prison at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on Monday, Bowman was immediately released due to the time he had already spent in custody. He pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including assault, intentional strangulation, possession of a controlled substance (cannabis), and damaging property.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Bowman forcibly entered his victim’s residence, verbally abused her, smoked marijuana, and physically assaulted her by poking his thumbs into her eyes. He later returned to her home and committed another assault, leading to his arrest for which he also resisted and spat at officers.
Despite the disturbing actions, Bowman’s lawyer, Steve Hennessy, mentioned that his client has shown signs of remorse and intends to seek employment in the near future. The victim, fortunately, did not sustain serious physical injuries from the incidents.
Recorder Robert Smith admonished Bowman for his abusive behavior towards the victim, emphasizing the need for him to change his ways to avoid prolonged incarceration. Despite expressing a desire to impose a longer sentence, the judge cited existing time spent in custody as the reason for Bowman’s immediate release.
