Man jailed for attacking woman who 'showed concern'

Police said the woman was concerned for Martin Newton's welfare, but "in return he attacked her"

A man has been jailed after he strangled and held a knife to the throat of a woman who was concerned for his welfare.

Martin Newton, 43, from Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, admitted to strangulation, assault causing actual bodily harm and wounding.

Police said his victim was a former friend who went to his house.

They added that the victim could not call for help as Newton held a knife to her throat and put pressure on her neck. He was jailed for two years.

'Deplorable'

Newton contacted the victim on 18 May last year.

Police said she was concerned for his welfare due to the nature of a message and went to his home.

They had a drink together before a disagreement. Newton then went to the kitchen and grabbed a knife.

The victim got the knife away from her throat but cut her hand in the process.

Police and ambulance services were called, and Newton was arrested.

Officers said the victim told them Newton had strangled her before, in December 2022, and held her arms tightly, which caused bruising.

After sentencing at Cambridge Crown Court, Det Con Ryan Ellington said: "Newton’s behaviour was deplorable.

"The victim was concerned for his welfare, and in return he attacked her.

“I’m pleased he has now faced justice for his actions.”