A man with a long history of domestic violence has been sentenced to prison for choking his partner during a heated argument, telling police he did it because she was "going nuts".
Attack Unfolds as Police Were Called
The incident occurred on the evening of August 25, 2025, at the couple's Fairy Meadow home. According to Wollongong Local Court documents, an argument erupted over alleged drug use, prompting the woman to call triple-zero for help.
The dispute escalated physically, with the woman striking the man in fear for her safety. In retaliation, the man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, placed her in a chokehold. He squeezed her neck, restricting her breathing for approximately 30 seconds.
Police arrived to find both parties in a "highly elevated" state. The man was arrested and taken to Wollongong Police Station, where he admitted to the assault, offering his explanation for the attack.
History of Violence and Court Sentencing
The offender appeared before Magistrate Michael Love in Wollongong Local Court on January 12, 2026, dressed in prison greens. He pleaded guilty to intentionally choking a person and breaching an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO).
The court heard the man had been jailed on three previous occasions, primarily for domestic-related offences. An ADVO had been protecting his partner of 15 years since December 2023.
Defence solicitor Lemar Miakhel told the court his client was taking a "holistic" approach to rehabilitation through prayer. However, he conceded the violence warranted a custodial sentence.
Magistrate's Stern Rebuke and Sentence
Magistrate Love delivered a powerful condemnation of the offender's actions and the broader issue of ADVO breaches. He described choking as an "incredibly frightening experience" where the victim is left not knowing "if they will ever take another breath".
He echoed community concern over victims who are assaulted or killed despite having protective orders in place. Noting the man's extensive history of domestic violence, Magistrate Love sentenced him to 18 months in prison with a non-parole period of one year.
The man will be eligible for release on August 24, 2026. Magistrate Love expressed hope the man could end his pattern of violence. The court also imposed a new five-year ADVO for the continued protection of the victim.
