Police Officer Jailed for Abuse and Coercive Control

A former Avon and Somerset police officer, Mitchell Curtis, aged 34, has been sentenced to three and a half years in prison for controlling and coercive behaviour, as well as for intentionally suffocating a woman. The offences took place in South Gloucestershire and occurred while Curtis was off duty, police confirmed. Jurors previously found him guilty of two counts of controlling and coercive behaviour, deliberate suffocation, and criminal damage. The judge, Lawrie, described Curtis as 'deceitful' and 'a bully,' emphasizing that his actions made the victim feel she wouldn't be taken seriously if she reported him. The victim demonstrated extraordinary courage by coming forward, which was praised during the sentencing. Curtis was arrested in October 2022 after the victim reported the abuse, leading to his suspension and subsequent criminal proceedings. In February, Curtis was determined to have committed gross misconduct and was resigned before he could be dismissed. He has now been added to a national barred list, ensuring he can never work in policing or law enforcement again. The police officer's abusive behavior included physical, emotional, and verbal abuse over a period of 18 months. Following his conviction, police officials praised the victim's bravery and asserted their commitment to pursuing justice against offenders of abuse.