Tunbridge Wells Man Jailed

Man subjected partner to repeated abuse

A controlling partner from Tunbridge Wells who subjected a woman to repeated physical and mental abuse has been sentenced to prison. Stephen Ives was jailed after pleading guilty to a string of violent offences which included biting his victim and holding her head under water.

Ives, aged 34, was responsible for a prolonged and sustained period of abuse over almost a year.

Catalogue of abuse

During one incident, on 11 April 2021, he followed the victim after she had filled a bath. Ives grabbed her by the throat with both hands and then pushed her under water, so her head was fully submerged.

Briefly leaving the property, Ives then demanded a phone from a neighbour which he used to send the woman abusive messages.

On his return, he continued to beat and torment his victim. As she attempted to call police, Ives emptied a bin onto her.

He was arrested shortly after, and an investigation established Ives had been responsible for a catalogue of abuse and assaults between June 2020 and April 2021.

Appearing before Maidstone Crown Court, Ives, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to four counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

On 23 June 2021, he was sentenced to two years and three months’ imprisonment.

Support for victims

PC Dan Holding, of the West Kent Vulnerability Investigation Team, said:
‘Ives continuously abused, isolated and tormented his victim during the vast majority of their relationship. He has subjected her to the most appalling violence, which was often fuelled by alcohol.'I would like to thank and commend the victim in this case, who has shown incredible courage and strength to give her evidence, having also endured relentless mental anguish, often intended to humiliate and degrade her.‘

Domestic violence is a priority for Kent Police and nobody should ever feel they have nowhere to turn. I would encourage anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation or relationship to report it to someone and get help.'There is a range of support and information available, just phone us or ask a trusted friend or relative to do it. Nobody should ever feel they don’t have the option to walk away or get help.’