AN ‘abusive and spiteful’ man has been released from jail after attempting to strangle his former partner with a tea towel.

Christopher Flynn, 52, received a suspended sentence at Reading Crown Court on Thursday (November 23), releasing him from prison where he has been remanded in custody since May.

He had been convicted of attempted strangulation and assault by beating – both of which occurred on November 10 last year in Newbury.

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Sentencing Flynn, Judge Neil Millard dubbed him as being ‘abusive and spiteful’ on the day of the incident which resulted in his ex-partner being fearful for her life.

He sentenced Flynn, of Wilson Close, Newbury, to 18 months in jail, suspended for 24 months, due to Flynn’s time in custody meaning he would be released soon regardless and therefore wanting to focus on his rehabilitation.

During the sentencing, the court heard that Flynn had been in a relationship with his former partner for a ‘little while’ before the relationship ‘soured’ and the pair began to argue.

After attending Toby Carvery on the day of the incident, Flynn travelled to his ex-partner's home where ‘he became abusive’ towards her.

“You were spiteful and told her that her children didn’t love her,” said Judge Millard.

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During the argument, Flynn threw his phone on the floor and when his ex-partner went to retrieve it, he ‘threw her to the floor’ which is the assault by beating count.

“You then attempted to strangle her,” said Judge Millard. “You held a tea towel around her neck for a few seconds and pulled it tight.

“I’m not sure how that becomes an ‘attempt’ but that is the basis of your plea.”

A victim impact statement written by the victim was read out in court in which she said she ‘thought she was going to die’.

“I’ve had to relocate due to the fear of Flynn finding me,” she wrote. “I’m scared he will find me and kill me.

“I’m scared my life will end in a violent way at his hands. I fear that no matter where I go or who I meet that Flynn has somewhere there waiting for me.

“I’m trying to understand why he did this to me. I’m trying to understand what I did to deserve this.”

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As well as the suspended sentence, Flynn was almost made subject to a restraining order and electronic monitoring.

He appeared via video link from prison during the sentencing, wearing black glasses and a light grey jumper. He faced the ground for most of the hearing.