Michael Law – Louth

A man from Louth has been sentenced to three years and five months in prison and handed a 10-year restraining order for multiple violence and controlling and coercive behaviour offences.

Michael Law, 42, of New Bridge Lane, Covenham St Mary, Louth changed an earlier plea from ‘not guilty’ to guilty at a hearing on 13 October where he admitted the charges of repeatedly engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour, assault (actual bodily harm), and two counts of intentional strangulation.

Examples of his controlling behaviour included: assaulting and threatening his victim, throwing glasses at her, insulting her in highly personal terms, blocking her access to a bank account, telling her what to wear and what make-up she could use, cutting her clothes and preventing her from dying her hair. His victim endured a prolonged pattern of abuse lasting from 1 January 2018 through to 15 February 2024.

Inspector Rhys Cordy of East Lindsey’s Response Investigation Team said:

This sentencing marks the conclusion of a deeply distressing investigation into a sustained campaign of violence and coercive control. The offences committed were not isolated incidents, but part of a deliberate and persistent pattern of behaviour designed to instil fear, exert dominance, and strip the victim of their autonomy.

Throughout the investigation, the courage shown by the victim in coming forward and supporting the case has been commendable. Their testimony was vital in securing justice and ensuring the offender is held accountable.

The sentence reflects the seriousness of these offences and sends a clear message that controlling and violent behaviour will not be tolerated. We remain committed to supporting victims of abuse and continue to work tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice.

Law was sentenced at Lincoln Crown Court on 16 October.

If you or someone you know is experiencing controlling or abusive behaviour, please don’t stay silent. Help is available, and you are not alone. Speak to someone you trust, contact support services, or reach out to us. Visit our Support Organisations webpage.

Together, we can break the cycle and ensure that justice is served.

➡️ LDASS offer information, advice and where eligible, specialist intervention support. You can make an online self-referral or call 01522 510041 (office hours).

➡️ Safe Spaces are consultation rooms you can use to find out about your options and the support available. They are there to give you sanctuary from your abuser. Safe Spaces are available in pharmacies including Boots, Coop, Morrisons and Superdrug and now also at certain banks.

➡️ Hollie Guard is an app for your phone that will track your location, send alerts to named contacts and record footage if you are in danger.