BREAKING: A 25-year-old man from Motherwell has been sentenced to 16 months in prison after a shocking incident in which he choked his partner during a domestic dispute. The court heard that Regan McIlmoyle attacked the woman on August 18 after she asked him to pack his bags and leave their home.
In a harrowing account presented at Hamilton Sheriff Court, prosecutor Scott O’Connor revealed that the couple, who share two children, had been together for four years. The conflict escalated around 9:30 AM when McIlmoyle, angered by his partner’s request, stormed upstairs. When he returned, he grabbed her by the hair and choked her, restricting her breathing for approximately five seconds.
Emergency services were called to the scene, where police officers noted visible redness around the victim’s neck, indicating the severity of the attack.
Defending McIlmoyle, solicitor John McLaughlin stated that the couple had previously enjoyed a strong relationship, but a “build-up of tension and frustration” had led to the incident. He explained that McIlmoyle had been drinking the night before and was still under the influence during the assault, describing it as a “momentary loss of control.”
Sheriff Michael Higgins emphasized the seriousness of the offense, noting that McIlmoyle was already under a community payback order for a previous domestic assault when he committed this latest act of violence. As part of the sentencing, a non-harassment order was imposed, preventing McIlmoyle from contacting his ex-partner indefinitely.
This urgent case highlights ongoing issues of domestic violence and the legal system’s response to such incidents. The court’s decision aims to provide a measure of justice and protection for victims in similar situations.
As this story develops, communities are urged to remain vigilant and supportive of those affected by domestic abuse. For anyone in need of help, resources are available to assist victims and offer guidance on how to seek safety.
