Following an investigation by Thames Valley Police, a man has been jailed for multiple domestic abuse offences in Reading.

Brian Sharp, aged 47, of Basingstoke Road, Reading, was sentenced to five years imprisonment following a hearing at Reading Crown Court on Wednesday (17/6).

Sharp pleaded guilty to two counts of engaging in controlling/coercive behaviour in an intimate/family relationship and one count each of intentional strangulation and threat to damage/destroy property on what was supposed to be the first day of his trial, at the same court on Monday (15/6).

Between 30 April and 18 December last year, Sharp subjected the victim, a woman he had been in a relationship with, to sustained and controlling behaviour.

He restricted her contact with family and friends, controlled what she wore, monitored her phone and communications, and repeatedly accused her of infidelity.

He would demand she account for her whereabouts, including requiring her to call him and show her surroundings on camera to prove she was not with other men.

This controlling behaviour escalated into repeated physical violence, including assaults where he punched her, grabbed and pulled her hair and pinned her down. On one occasion, he strangled her, restricting her breathing.

When the victim then fled to a friend’s address, Sharp threatened to burn down the property.

Investigating officer PC Ben Coxhead said: “This sentence reflects the sustained and serious abuse the victim was subjected to over a prolonged period.

“Brian Sharp’s behaviour was controlling, violent and deeply dangerous. He sought to dominate the victim’s day-to-day life, isolate her from those closest to her, monitor her movements and communications and repeatedly use physical violence and intimidation to maintain that control.

“In his sentencing remarks, the judge told the court that Sharp’s conduct was intended to maximise the victim’s fear, causing her to suffer significant psychological harm.

“Cases such as this show that domestic abuse is far more than physical violence alone. It includes control, intimidation, fear and the deliberate erosion of a victim’s freedom and wellbeing.

“These offences have a profound and lasting impact on victims and their families, both physically and emotionally.

“I would like to commend the victim for the courage and resilience they have shown throughout this investigation and the court process. I also want to thank all those who supported the investigation and helped bring Sharp before the court.

“Thames Valley Police remains committed to pursuing perpetrators of domestic abuse, safeguarding victims and ensuring that those responsible for this kind of offending are brought to justice.

“I would urge anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or anyone concerned for somebody they know, to report it to police. You will be listened to, supported and taken seriously.

“We always encourage people to seek support and access the information available to help them make informed decisions about their safety.”

For those who have concerns about someone they are in a relationship with, or a relationship they are entering, Clare’s Law – a domestic violence disclosure scheme – allows individuals to request information where they believe there may be a genuine risk of abuse or harm.

For details on how to make a Clare’s Law information request, please see our website: Request information under Clare’s Law: Make a Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS) application | Thames Valley Police

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, or are concerned for someone else, please contact Thames Valley Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.