DANIEL HUTCHINSON – DERBY

He was found guilty of intentional strangulation, assault occasioning actual bodily harm (ABH), and criminal damage. These offences reflected a pattern of violent and controlling behaviour that posed a significant risk to the victim’s safety and wellbeing.

At sentencing, the court imposed a 21-month suspended prison sentence, meaning he will serve the custodial term if he commits any further offences within the suspension period. In addition, he was ordered to complete 210 hours of unpaid community work and 21 days of rehabilitation activity requirements, aimed at addressing his behaviour and reducing the likelihood of future harm. To provide long-term protection for the victim, the judge also granted a five-year restraining order, prohibiting him from contacting her directly or indirectly.

This case highlights the importance of Clare’s Law, formally known as the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS). Under Clare’s Law, individuals have the right to ask the police whether a current or former partner has a history of violent or abusive behaviour (“Right to Ask”), and police may proactively warn someone if they believe that person is at risk (“Right to Know”). The scheme is designed to empower people with potentially lifesaving information so they can make informed decisions about their safety and seek support at an early stage.