WHITTLESEY MAN SENTENCED TO PRISON FOR ASSAULT AND HARASSMENT

Wayne Garner, aged 34, was found guilty following a series of violent and intimidating acts directed at his former partner. His offenses ranged from harassment and physical assault to issuing threats and damaging property. During police questioning, Garner admitted that consuming inexpensive vodka could cause him to become aggressive, describing himself as turning into “an animal” under its influence. The police investigation uncovered troubling incidents, including Garner grabbing his partner by the neck while she was in the bathtub, pushing her underwater, and threatening to drown her, all just three days prior to his arrest. He also caused property damage by smashing a glass panel during an outburst. When attempting to escape from officers, Garner was detained; despite being granted conditional bail and an order to avoid contact or proximity to the victim, he took their car from the driveway the following day. The victim received numerous threatening calls and messages, and her bank account was transferred £1 by him. He was also seen driving past her residence multiple times and sent threatening messages via TikTok, including statements like “My biggest regret is laying a hand on you.” After breaking bail conditions, Garner continued his harassment by messaging her son with threats such as “she’ll know about it when I see her again” and “if she didn’t push the right buttons, it wouldn’t happen, would it.” He further warned her with messages indicating he would slit her throat. His behavior culminated in a serious assault, leading to a prison sentence of 16 months after admitting guilt to multiple charges, including harassment, assault by beating, malicious communications, obstructing an officer, and criminal damage in Peterborough Crown Court. Detective Constable Lloyd Davis emphasized that Garner’s campaign of intimidation and violence was significant, and expressed satisfaction that the court acknowledged the severity of his actions. He also commended the victim's bravery in coming forward.