Man jailed for strangulation and assault of woman

A 26-year-old man from Bury St Edmunds has been jailed for causing actual bodily harm and intentional strangulation.

Zacheriah Howard, of St Stephens Close in Bury St Edmunds, appeared at Ipswich Crown Court on Tuesday 5 May where he was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment.

He had pleaded guilty to three counts of intentional strangulation and two counts of assault causing actual bodily harm at an earlier hearing.

Howard denied the charge of controlling and coercive behaviour and this was left to lay on file.

The offences related to one woman.

DC Rachael Sams, who was the officer in charge of the case, said: “The offences spanned over four years, during which Howard showed incredibly aggressive and violent behaviour towards the victim.

“He assaulted her during two pregnancies, putting her in fear for her life and caused her multiple injuries. No one should be subjected to such abuse.

“Strangulation indicates violence is escalating and we urge anyone in an abusive relationship to seek help.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please seek help. Victims are encouraged to contact police or the Suffolk Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0800 977 5690.

A list of support organisations can also be found here Support organisations for victims of domestic violence | Suffolk Constabulary

Further support and advice can be found on the Suffolk Constabulary website: Advice about domestic abuse | Suffolk Constabulary 

An image of Howard can be found via this link - Man jailed for strangulation and assault of woman | Suffolk Constabulary