Torquay man jailed for smashing partner with mobility scooter in violent attack

TORQUAY MAN JAILED FOR SMASHING PARTNER WITH MOBILITY SCOOTER IN VIOLENT ATTACK

A man from Torquay, Paul Pickering, has been sentenced for causing grievous bodily harm after a violent incident involving his partner.

Pickering, aged 51, was heavily intoxicated, having consumed two litres of vodka, which notably increased his aggression.

According to reports, during a disagreement outside the woman's residence in Teignmouth Road, Pickering became abusive and, instead of helping his injured partner, drove his mobility scooter at her.

He struck her with such force that she fell and was injured, subsequently running over her right arm and ankle.

The victim, who has been left with nightmares and has expressed a desire to leave the area, sustained a broken wrist and foot, and took 12 days in hospital for treatment.

Despite his apologies and efforts to move her out of danger, Pickering drove away and was later arrested by police.

Court records reveal a history of violence and 39 previous convictions, including assaults on police and his partner.

During sentencing at Exeter Crown Court, the judge acknowledged his history and the seriousness of the attack, noting he deliberately drove at her and left her injured without calling an ambulance.

Pickering was sentenced to a year and seven months in prison.

The court also issued a restraining order preventing contact with his partner for five years, and a probation report indicated he was remorseful, despite minimizing his responsibility.