A man who ‘exercised controlling and abusive behaviour over his partner’ has been jailed for over two years.
Mohammed Anwaar, 27, of Charlotte Road, Sheffield, pleaded guilty to coercive and controlling behaviour at Sheffield Crown Court. He also pleaded guilty to eight counts of assault and criminal damage.
He was sentenced to a total of two years and four months, the first successful conviction for South Yorkshire Police under new legislation enabling police to prosecute offenders for coercive and controlling behaviour.
The court heard that Anwaar abused his partner over an almost two-year period, controlling her diet, exercise and what clothing she wore.
Detective Constable Ian Chamberlain, the investigating officer, said: “Anwaar had exercised controlling and abusive behaviour over his partner since May 2014.
“He told her what clothes to wear, when she could see her friends and family and made sure he was with her at all times.
“Following a change in the law at the start of this year, we’re now able to prosecute against people who use coercive control, and this gives us another way to tackle those who commit domestic abuse.
“In this case, both physical and mental abuse occurred over a prolonged period, and I would like to praise the woman in coming forward and reporting the matter to us.
“This has enabled us to not only bring Anwaar to justice for his actions, but to also provide this woman with the necessary support in order to help her move forward with her life.”
Superintendent Natalie Shaw, the force lead for domestic abuse, said: “This is the first successful conviction we have had under the new legislation regarding coercive control, and I am pleased that Anwaar is now behind bars for his actions.
“Domestic abuse is wide ranging and isn’t always clear to see upon first examination. Just because physical signs of abuse might not be present, it doesn’t mean that someone isn’t a victim of domestic abuse, and coercive control can be extremely damaging to a person.
“I’m pleased that coercive control is now legally recognised and we can continue to work with partners to effectively tackle domestic abuse cases and provide the support needed to those involved.
“I would also like to praise the bravery of the woman involved in this case as well as the work of the officers, which combined has helped to bring about this successful conviction.
“If you’re suffering from emotional, physical or psychological abuse, I’d encourage you to report it to someone.
“If you don’t feel comfortable talking to the police, there are a wide range of support agencies and charities you can speak to.
“Please know that help is available and you do not have to suffer.”
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