MICHAEL WEATHERBURN FROM STANLEY SENTENCED AFTER VIOLENT ATTACK IN DURHAM

Michael Weatherburn appeared before Durham Crown Court to face sentencing after admitting to a charge of assault causing actual bodily harm. The incident took place in the couple's home, which was undergoing renovation, in the town of Stanley. During the court proceedings, Weatherburn explained that the altercation with his partner escalated into a physical confrontation. He admitted that during a heated argument, he pushed his partner away with both hands, which resulted in visible bruising on her wrists. He also acknowledged that she may have been 'brushed' on the face during the incident, but he denied any intention of causing serious injury.

Weatherburn further admitted that he might have briefly had his hand around her neck, but he firmly denied punching her or engaging in strangulation. The confrontation reportedly involved Weatherburn pushing the victim onto the stairs, which caused her pain and a noticeable 'pop' in her neck. The victim provided a different account, stating that Weatherburn charged at her, forcibly pushed her, punched her, and even head-butted her during the altercation. Weatherburn, however, denied these specific allegations, claiming that he was verbally provoked by her and that she was aggressive and got in his face. He insisted that he only held her at arm’s length during the incident.

In his police interview, Weatherburn stated that he was provoked and that his actions were a response to her behavior. Despite his history, which includes nine convictions for a total of 17 offenses—most of which occurred over 20 years ago—he was sentenced to 16 months in prison. Additionally, the court issued a five-year restraining order to prevent any further contact with the victim. The judge emphasized that the attack was cowardly and targeted a vulnerable woman, criticizing Weatherburn for attempting to minimize his actions and for blaming his victim. The court made it clear that such sentences serve as a deterrent to violence against partners, underscoring the seriousness with which the justice system treats domestic violence cases in the Durham area.