Middlesbrough man jailed for violent abuse and coercive behavior

Mark Anthony Yates, aged 41 and from Middlesbrough, received a prison sentence of four years and 11 months after pleading guilty to numerous charges, including assaults and coercive control directed at a woman. Following his arrest last year, police labeled Yates as a "serial offender." The abusive behavior reportedly took place over an extended period and resulted in physical harm to the victim, who was also left in significant fear. The sentence was handed down on Friday, June 21, 2024. Detective Constable Matthew Kirby praised the victim’s courage in coming forward and reaffirmed the police’s dedication to combating violence against women and girls. He added, “We will continue to support victims and assist them throughout investigations and court proceedings. I am pleased with today’s sentence and hope it helps her recover.” The court’s decision underscores a firm stance against such crimes, and measures are in place to support the victim’s efforts to rebuild her life.