Judge sentencing Larne man says research shows that anyone who applies pressure to the throat of a victim 'risks causing death or serious injury'
A judge said research shows that anyone who applies pressure to the throat of a victim risks causing death or serious injury.
District Judge Nigel Broderick was speaking as he sentenced Glen Ogilby (33), of The Roddens in Larne, to a jail term for non-fatal strangulation.
Ballymena Magistrates Court was told that on September 14 last year the defendant had an argument with his ex-partner and punched her in the face.
He then put his arm round her neck in a headlock and dragged her from a hall and into the living room and onto the floor. Police noted redness to her neck and face.
When arrested and interviewed the defendant made full admissions saying the victim was "laughing at him" and he "lost his temper". He said he had later sent a text message apologising.
A defence barrister said the defendant "apologises profusely".
He said it had been a "moment of madness" from the defendant and it "would appear it arose out of something as simple as a next door neighbour's dog barking".
Judge Broderick said: "The fact that he put her in a headlock impeded her ability to breath. The fact that she was dragged in the headlock is obviously aggravating.
"Research has shown us that anyone who applies pressure to the throat area of a victim really runs the risk of causing a fatality if not serious injury."
He handed down a one-year term, six months to be served in custody and six on release licence. A two-year Restraining Order was also put in place.
The defendant was given £500 bail for appeal of the sentence.