DEAN CHRISTOPHER SENTENCED IN EXETER FOR DOMESTIC ASSAULT ON CHRISTMAS DAY

Dean Christopher, a 50-year-old man, has been convicted of a domestic assault that took place on Christmas Day in Exeter. During the incident, Christopher, who was heavily intoxicated, lost control after being reminded of a promise to visit his partner's mother. He then grabbed his partner and bit her on the lip so fiercely that she required 16 stitches in hospital. The woman, who has bipolar disorder, anxiety, and other mental health issues, managed to escape and sought help from a neighbor who saw her covered in blood.

Initially, Christopher denied the assault, claiming it was in self-defense. However, he later pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding at Exeter Crown Court. The judge described the violence as a domestic assault committed in anger after heavy drinking and cocaine use. Christopher has a criminal record with 42 previous offenses, including three violent crimes.

The victim explained that all her previous relationships involved domestic violence, and she had come to accept this pattern until the recent incident. She has now ended the relationship and removed Christopher from her life.

The court heard that Christopher’s behavior was part of a troubling pattern involving alcohol and drugs in his past relationships. His lawyer acknowledged his difficult upbringing, but the judge emphasized the severity of the assault. Christopher was sentenced to 14 months in prison, and a five-year restraining order was issued to prevent him from contacting the victim.