Paignton man jailed for severe domestic assault causing broken sternum

PAIGNTON MAN JAILED FOR SEVERE DOMESTIC ASSAULT CAUSING BROKEN STERNUM

A scaffolder from Paignton has been sentenced to two and a half years in prison for causing serious injury to his girlfriend during an argument over his socks.

Daniel Dowd, aged 39, deliberately pushed his elbow into her chest, resulting in a fracture to her sternum, which she initially lied about to medical staff.

The court was told that she had struggled with her injury for three months before police investigations revealed the true cause.

Dowd admitted to causing actual bodily harm (ABH) and battery, and the judge noted that he showed no remorse.

The court also imposed a 10-year restraining order preventing any contact with the woman.

The relationship, which began in 2017, became increasingly abusive, especially after tensions arose over Dowd's drinking and gambling.

The woman described her fear and emotional damage, stating, "I spent most days living in fear of what might happen," and detailed how Dowd controlled her and undermined her confidence.

The court heard that Dowd also made unkind comments about her parenting and household demands.

The violence continued with further incidents of pushing, grabbing, and pouring wine over her, leading to her decision to report him to the police.

Dowd initially denied the offences but later confessed after the trial started.

The judge described their relationship as lengthy and abusive, emphasizing that Dowd had no remorse for his actions.