New Law Clamps Down on Non-Fatal Strangulation
Non-fatal strangulation officially became a standalone offence on 7 June under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. Just 10 days later, 26-year-old Joshua James Hunt put that law to the test in shocking fashion.
Brutal Attack in Newport
At around 11.50pm on 17 June, Hunt assaulted a woman he knew in Little London, Newport, by grabbing her throat. The victim suffered bruising to her arms and was strangled twice – the second time so severe she struggled to breathe. The attack happened in broad daylight as people were returning from the Isle of Wight Festival.
Thanks to three brave onlookers who intervened, police were called, and Hunt was arrested on the spot.
Landmark Conviction Then Jail for Breach of Restraining Order
Hunt, from Petticoat Lane in Newport, admitted charges of non-fatal strangulation and breaching a restraining order at Magistrates’ Court on 23 June. This was Hampshire’s first-ever conviction for this offence and among the earliest in the UK.
Initially sentenced to an 18-month suspended sentence, Hunt ignored the court’s warning. Just two days post-sentencing, he breached his restraining order again by showing up to a probation appointment with the victim.
Arrested and charged again, Hunt faced His Honour Judge Shepherd at Newport Crown Court on 26 September. The judge activated 16 months of the suspended sentence and added 4 more months for the new breach, sending Hunt to jail for a total of 20 months. He was also hit with a £187 victim surcharge.
Police Urge Victims to Speak Out
“Tackling perpetrators of domestic abuse is an absolute priority,” said Acting Chief Inspector Andy McDonald. “Restraining orders are vital to keep dangerous individuals at bay and protect victims.”
“The victim in this case faced a violent assault in public, and Hunt poses a significant risk. We thank the Probation Service for spotting his breach and alerting police – showing our strong partnership on the Island to safeguard vulnerable people.”
“If you’re suffering domestic abuse, don’t suffer in silence. Contact the police or domestic abuse support services – your call will be taken seriously.”
Help Is Out There
Not comfortable ringing the cops? Island victims can reach out to The Paragon Team, part of The YOU Trust charity, offering specialist support for stalking and domestic abuse.
Visit paragonteam.org.uk for help.
For those in Hampshire, find local support services here: Hampshire Police Domestic Abuse Support.
