A man who violently strangled and punched his girlfriend after becoming irritated that she asked if he was “okay” too often has avoided immediate prison time, walking free from Woolwich Crown Court with a suspended sentence.
Alex Durkin, 21, of Gibson Road, Dagenham, was living in Greenwich at the time of two separate violent attacks on his then-girlfriend.
Durkin pleaded guilty to intentional strangulation, two counts of assault, and criminal damage, but on Tuesday, April 29, he received a one-year prison sentence suspended for 18 months.
Details of the Attacks
The first attack occurred in August 2024 after the pair returned to the victim’s flat following a night of drinking. When Durkin became aggressive, the victim began recording him. Prosecutor Mr. Ilyas told the court the footage captured the moment Durkin grabbed her by the throat with both hands.
The video revealed that even after 30 seconds, the victim was struggling to breathe and calling for Durkin to stop. He then punched her in the face and ripped a radiator off the wall in a violent outburst.
The second attack took place in February 2025, while the pair were watching TV. Durkin became irritable, broke the victim’s laptop in half, and punched her in the eye, the court heard.
Following his arrest, Durkin admitted to the offences, telling police that he was annoyed because his girlfriend frequently asked him if he was alright.
Defence and Sentencing
Defending, Miss Wilson said Durkin was extremely remorseful and highlighted that these were his first offences, coinciding with the death of his grandmother, which deeply affected him emotionally.
She explained that Durkin had removed himself from Greenwich during the legal proceedings and currently holds two job offers — one as a maintenance worker at Dulwich College and another at a children’s playground where he previously worked.
Miss Wilson said:
“Speaking to him today, he is absolutely determined to never come back before the court and has learnt a very hard lesson.”
Recorder Alex Stein acknowledged the seriousness of domestic violence, particularly how such incidents can escalate into more serious crimes. However, he accepted the mitigating circumstances and suspended Durkin’s sentence.
Durkin must also complete:
- 100 hours of unpaid work
- 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days
Community Response
The case has reignited debate around the treatment of domestic violence offenders in the UK, particularly the use of suspended sentences in cases involving serious physical assault.
South London domestic abuse advocacy groups have called for more consistent and tougher sentences, warning that early intervention is critical to preventing future tragedies.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, help is available. Contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247 or visit www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk.
