A man who subjected his former partner to a sustained campaign of coercive and controlling behaviour, violence, and threats has been jailed following a police investigation.

Michael Salmon (02/03/1976), of Chatsworth Road, London, was sentenced to three years and two months imprisonment at Manchester Crown Court on Friday 6 November after being convicted of controlling and coercive behaviour against his former partner.

The court heard how Salmon’s offending escalated over a number of years, leaving the victim isolated, intimidated, and living in fear. His controlling behaviour included monitoring her movements, repeatedly questioning her whereabouts, and demanding video calls to verify where she was and who she was with.

Following the birth of their daughter, Salmon’s behaviour became increasingly possessive and aggressive. During the investigation, the victim bravely disclosed a series of incidents in which she had been physically assaulted and subjected to threats and intimidation.

The abuse culminated on 28 September 2024 when Salmon became aggressive during a family journey and began driving erratically while the victim and their young daughter were in the vehicle. As tensions escalated, he threatened to drive the car into a wall, killing everyone inside.

Later that day, following an argument at home, Salmon armed himself with two kitchen knives and confronted the victim while she was holding their five-month-old daughter.

During the terrifying incident, he pointed the knives towards her and shouted: “She is the only one saving you now.”

The following day, on 29 September 2024, the victim reported the abuse to police, prompting an investigation that led to Salmon’s arrest and subsequent charge.

Despite denying the allegations throughout his police interview, investigators were able to uncover compelling evidence that contradicted his account.

A household cat camera, installed above a cat feeding area and intended to monitor the family’s cat while they were away from the property, captured crucial footage. The recordings showed Salmon holding a knife while standing over the victim, providing powerful evidence of the threat she faced and corroborating her account of events.

DC Grindley that led this investigation said: “This conviction reflects a sustained pattern of controlling, coercive and threatening behaviour that left the victim living in fear.

“What began as monitoring, jealousy and attempts to control everyday aspects of her life escalated into violence, intimidation and serious threats involving weapons.

“Crucially, footage captured on a household pet camera, alongside evidence provided by the victim, enabled investigators to demonstrate the reality of what was happening behind closed doors.

“I would like to commend the victim for the immense courage she has shown throughout both the investigation and court process. Her bravery in coming forward has ensured a dangerous offender has been brought to justice.

“I hope this outcome reassures victims of domestic abuse that they will be listened to, believed and supported. No one should have to live in fear in their own home or relationship.

“Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, coercive control, threats, or violence is encouraged to report it to Greater Manchester Police via 101, online, or by calling 999 in an emergency. Support is also available through specialist domestic abuse services.

“The victim hopes by us sharing this story she can help other people.”

Like in this case, not all violence against women and girls starts as physical abuse, and instances may go unreported as people in controlling relationships often do not recognise the harm they face.

To help in preventing this behaviour, we are supporting the Mayor of Greater Manchester’s ‘#IsThisOk?’ campaign, which aims to raise awareness around the signs of coercive and controlling behaviour.

More information on the ‘#IsThisOkay: This is not a Game, Boy’ campaign can be found here: #IsThisOk?

Report and support information

We encourage any victim of domestic abuse to come forward to us by calling 101, reporting on our website, or using our Live Chat service. We are committed to safeguarding vulnerable people, reducing harm and bringing offenders to justice. We will listen, support and act.

Always call 999 in an emergency.

Whether you choose to report to police, or not, please know that support is out there.

You can contact the below local support organisations who will help you.

Greater Manchester domestic abuse helpline Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, except bank holidays. For anyone experiencing domestic abuse. Includes a language service and advice for the LGBT community.

End the Fear includes information on local help all over Greater Manchester.

Credit image Greater Manchester Police