A 25-year-old man from Hartlepool has been sentenced at Teesside Crown Court after admitting intentionally strangling his fiancée and committing further assaults during incidents in 2023.
Court heard victim was left struggling to breathe
Callum Grainger, of Lister Street, pleaded guilty to intentional strangulation, battery and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The court was told that during an argument at the couple’s home his partner tried to get away; Grainger then struck her to the ribs and later grabbed her throat with both hands, squeezing until she was unable to breathe and was gasping for air.
“This is one of the most frightening things that can happen to someone. It’s extremely dangerous.”
The comment was made by Recorder Paul Reid as he addressed Grainger in court. The judge noted the serious nature of strangulation, pointing out that even a short period of pressure on the throat can cause significant injury or death.
Sentence and rehabilitation requirements
In mitigation, the defence said Grainger had been drinking to cope with mental health difficulties but had since become sober and expressed remorse. He also wrote a letter to the judge describing his behaviour as “outrageous”. The victim provided an impact statement, saying the assaults had destroyed her trust.
| Offence | Sentence/Order |
|---|---|
| Intentional strangulation, battery, ABH | 18 months' imprisonment, suspended for 2 years |
| Community requirements | 250 hours unpaid work; up to 30 rehabilitation activity days |
The suspended sentence means Grainger will not go immediately to prison provided he complies with the terms imposed by the court during the two-year suspension period.
Local implications and support information
Strangulation in the context of domestic abuse is increasingly recognised as a high-risk behaviour with potentially fatal consequences. The sentence and the judge’s comments underline the severity with which the courts treat such conduct.
Anyone in Hartlepool affected by domestic abuse or concerned for someone’s safety can seek help from local support services and national helplines. If someone is in immediate danger they should contact the police on 999; for non-emergency concerns the police can be reached on 101.
- Offender: Callum Grainger, aged 25, Lister Street, Hartlepool
- Court: Teesside Crown Court
- Sentence: 18 months suspended for two years with community and rehabilitation requirements
The case highlights both the physical danger posed by strangulation and the lasting emotional harm reported by victims. Recorder Reid’s remarks serve as a reminder of the potential for serious harm even when an assault appears brief.
