Man Jailed for Years of Abuse and Suffocation Attacks on Victim

A man from Cumbria has been jailed after being convicted of subjecting his victim to months of physical violence, coercive behaviour, and suffocation attacks.

Sam Thomas, 44, of Winifred Street, was found guilty at Carlisle Crown Court of coercive and controlling behaviour, three counts of actual bodily harm, and one count of intentional suffocation. He was sentenced to five years and six months in prison.

The court heard that the abuse took place between April and October 2025 and had a severe impact on the victim’s wellbeing. Police described the incidents as a sustained and horrific period of abuse.

Investigators said Thomas repeatedly used violence and intimidation to control the victim during the relationship. Officers highlighted the difficulties many victims face when reporting domestic abuse and encouraged anyone suffering similar treatment to seek help.

Temporary Detective Constable Jodie Proctor praised the victim for coming forward and said domestic abuse reports would always be handled with professionalism, care, and sensitivity by Cumbria Police.

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