A man described as “cowardly” has avoided jail time after being convicted for a brutal assault on his former girlfriend, during which he forcibly inserted his thumbs into her eyes.

Layton Bowman, aged 20, hailing from Blurton in Stoke-on-Trent, attacked his ex-partner by strangling her, threatening her with a knife, and spitting at a police officer upon his arrest. He was also found in possession of cannabis and later caused damage to his police cell by urinating in it.

Despite being sentenced to nine months in prison at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, Bowman was immediately released due to the time already spent in custody awaiting trial.

Having pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including assault, intentional strangulation, possession of a controlled drug (cannabis), and criminal damage, Bowman’s actions were detailed in court. He forcefully entered his ex-girlfriend’s residence, verbally abused her, threatened her, and physically assaulted her by poking his thumbs into her eyes.

Moreover, Bowman reoffended by returning to the victim’s home and assaulting her again on a subsequent day, resulting in his arrest for assaulting officers during the apprehension process.

In a statement, Bowman’s legal representative, Steve Hennessy, mentioned that his client has shown signs of maturation following the incidents and expressed a desire to seek employment soon.

Recorder Robert Smith, addressing Bowman in court, condemned his abusive behavior towards his victim and warned him of the consequences if he did not change his ways. Despite acknowledging the severity of the offenses, the judge cited the time served in custody and released Bowman promptly after sentencing, although noting that a longer prison term would have been preferable.

Moving forward, Bowman aims to return to his grandmother’s residence upon release and has a potential job opportunity at a Pets at Home warehouse where his uncle holds a managerial position.