A man who subjected a former partner to years of coercive and controlling behaviour was sentenced on Friday (27 Feb) after admitting a number of offences.
Wayne Kelly, 49, of Robert Owen Avenue, Cleator Moor , admitted charges of engaging in controlling/coercive behaviour, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and threats with an offensive weapon.
The court heard how on 9 November 2025, Kelly had begun yelling and screaming at his then partner in their Whitehaven home, during a discussion about transport to work.
Kelly’s then partner became scared for her safety and called her daughter. The call was unanswered but she put the phone in her dressing gown pocket without hanging up.
Kelly then grabbed a kitchen knife from a drawer, threatening to stab her with it.
The phone call had gone to voicemail. Upon listening to the message, the daughter headed to the address with another family member to help and get Kelly’s former partner safely away from the address.
They flagged down a passing police vehicle and the ex-partner disclosed that she had been physically and verbally abused by Kelly throughout their three-year relationship, during which time he had been controlling and threatening on numerous occasions, including threatening to kill her, kill her kids and ruin her life.
She told officers he had punched her in the face multiple times and headbutted her, dragged her downstairs and struck her over the head with a phone, as well as thrown liquids at her.
He had also caused damage to the address including smashing up a sink.
She also told officers about how he would prevent her from seeing friends and family and would track her mobile phone and check her social media.
She told the officers she had begged family not to report out of fear for the repercussions from him.
Kelly was arrested that same day.
In his police interview he refused to answer any questions, remaining silent throughout.
At court he admitted engaging in controlling/coercive behaviour, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and threats with an offensive weapon.
Kelly was sentenced at Carlisle Crown Court to two years in prison, suspended for two years. He was also made subject to a five-year restraining order and ordered to pay £3,000 in compensation.
Detective Constable Debi Gilmour said: “The survivor of Kelly’s abuse was subjected to years of physical attacks and psychological abuse which culminated in the events of 9 November and his grabbing a knife and threatening to stab his partner.
“I would like to recognise the courage the survivor has shown in coming forward and talking to the police about what she has endured so that action could be taken.
“I hope that her bravery is an inspiration to other survivors to come forward and trust the police to offer support, to safeguard and, where supported by the survivor, to act against the abuser.”
How do I access a range of domestic abuse support services?
You can access support services regardless of whether you have reported a crime to the police.
The National Domestic Abuse Helpline operates 24/7, 365 days a year. Call: 0808 2000 247.
More on the National Domestic Abuse Helpline here: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk
To access support services independently, contact Victim Support on 0300 303 0157 – or go to: www.cumbria-pcc.gov.uk/victim-service.
How do you report domestic abuse to police?
If you are currently experiencing and/or a survivor of previous domestic abuse, or are concerned for someone who is, you can report this by calling 101.
Always dial 999 in an emergency.
You can get more advice about domestic abuse here: Advice about domestic abuse | Cumbria Police.