Man jailed for coercive and controlling behaviour

Jeffery required his partner's phone to remain on video call while she was in hospital

A man who demanded his partner wear loose clothing at all times and kept curtains shut to prevent her seeing anyone outside has been jailed for coercive and controlling behaviour.

Grant Jeffery, 33, from Tonbridge, pleaded guilty and was imprisoned for three years and one month at Maidstone Crown Court on Tuesday.

He will also be subject to a 10-year restraining order.

The victim, who feared she would be harmed if she did not follow Jeffery's demands, lost weight and became so ill she was admitted to hospital.

Jeffery, of no fixed abode, also prevented the woman from contacting friends or family.

While she was undergoing hospital treatment in September 2023, Jeffery visited on many occasions and required her phone to remain on video call so he could observe her.

He assaulted the victim while at the hospital and was arrested by officers from Kent Police at a bus stop outside the building on 21 September.

Det Con Jake Squire, from the West Kent Proactive Domestic Abuse Team, described Jeffery as an "aggressive bully who used threats and intimidation to exert complete control over his victim".

"It is right he is now serving a prison sentence and I hope this gives his victim the opportunity to repair her health and rebuild her life."