A Maidstone man has been sentenced to prison after a video phone call captured the moment he violently assaulted his partner during a prolonged period of domestic abuse.

James Dye, 29, from College Road, Maidstone, subjected the victim to sustained physical and psychological abuse over at least two years. The abuse escalated to a violent outburst on 14 May 2024, when Dye attended the victim’s home. During a conversation about plans to go out later that day, Dye became aggressive and assaulted her. In an attempt to protect herself, the victim managed to grab a tablet device and made a phone call to a friend, who witnessed the assault, seeing Dye with both hands around her neck.

The victim was able to escape the property, but Dye followed her, continuing to shout insults and intimidation as she boarded a train towards Maidstone. The police were notified in the weeks that followed, and Dye was arrested on 25 June 2024.

The investigation revealed that Dye had been controlling several aspects of the victim’s life throughout the relationship. He had banned her from wearing makeup, dictated her clothing choices, and isolated her by controlling her social interactions—blocking her friends on her phone to prevent her from contacting them.

Dye appeared before Maidstone Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to a charge of engaging in a controlling and coercive relationship. A second charge of intentional strangulation was ordered by the court to lie on file. On 28 January 2025, he was sentenced to 15 months in prison and was also issued with a five-year restraining order.

Detective Constable Josh Barkaway, who led the investigation, commented: “Dye subjected his victim to repeated psychological and physical abuse, using fear and threats of violence to exert control over almost every aspect of her life. His appalling behaviour left the victim in constant fear and anxiety, forcing her to change her daily routines. We are grateful that the victim showed incredible courage in coming forward, helping us secure this important conviction.”

He added, “No one should feel trapped in an abusive relationship. There is help available, and I urge anyone in a similar situation to reach out—either directly or through a trusted friend or relative.”

This case serves as a reminder that domestic abuse can happen behind closed doors, and support is always available for victims seeking to escape their situation.