MATTHEW BENTLEY STALKER PUNCHED PREGNANT WOMAN IN STOKE-ON-TRENT AND THREATENED TO SMASH HER WINDOWS
In a disturbing series of events in Stoke-on-Trent, Matthew Bentley, a 27-year-old man, was found guilty of assaulting his pregnant ex-girlfriend, engaging in stalking behavior, and causing damage to her vehicle.The court proceedings revealed a pattern of aggressive and threatening conduct that culminated in a violent confrontation.
According to the evidence presented at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, Bentley physically assaulted his former partner by punching her in the face, an act that left visible bruising.
The assault reportedly occurred while Bentley was driving a car, with the victim seated in the passenger seat.
This incident took place during a period when the couple had been separated for some time, although their relationship had lasted over seven years with many on-and-off episodes.
Further details emerged during the trial, including that Bentley had visited his ex-girlfriend’s residence in Stoke-on-Trent in December 2020 under the pretense of collecting his belongings.
The visit was reportedly prompted by her unavailability, which caused concern among her family members.
Her aunt, worried about her safety, enlisted a friend to check on her at the property.
When the friend arrived, a child answered the door and quickly closed it, preventing any direct communication.
This prompted the aunt to contact the police for assistance.
When police arrived at the scene, they observed fresh bruising on the victim’s face, which she attributed to an assault by Bentley that had occurred several days earlier.
The victim recounted that Bentley had punched her in the face during the incident.
The court also heard that Bentley had called her derogatory names, including referring to her as a ‘little rat,’ especially after she obtained a non-molestation order against him.
Witnesses reported seeing Bentley lurking in her garden on CCTV footage, further indicating his stalking behavior.
In addition to the assault, Bentley caused damage to her car and issued threats to destroy her windows, demonstrating a pattern of intimidation and harassment.
His actions culminated in his arrest, after which he was bailed pending further investigation.
However, his continued behavior and breach of the non-molestation order led to his conviction.
Ultimately, Matthew Bentley was sentenced to 15 months in prison after admitting to charges of assault by beating, breaching the court order, and stalking.
The case highlights the ongoing issues of domestic violence and harassment in Stoke-on-Trent, emphasizing the importance of legal protections for victims and the need for swift justice in such cases.
