Maidstone man jailed for violent abuse of woman

A violent man from the Maidstone area is starting a prison sentence after he persistently assaulted and abused a woman for more than a year.

Kasey Knowles targeted his vulnerable victim between January 2021 and February 2022, with repeated assaults which included punching and kicking her. 

He was arrested on 21 February 2022, when the victim called 999 having suffered verbal abuse from Knowles throughout the day, which left her in fear of being assaulted again.

When patrols arrived at her address, Knowles fled into the back garden where he was detained, despite a struggle with officers to evade capture. 

Guilty

An investigation revealed evidence of relentless abuse which included threats to kill the victim. She had kept photographs of her injuries.

Knowles, of no fixed address, was charged with coercive and controlling behaviour (namely being verbally aggressive and repeatedly assaulting his victim).

He was also charged with resisting an officer in the execution of his duty.

The 28-year-old pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court and on 15 July 2022 was sentenced to two years and nine months in prison.

This included five months’ imprisonment for the activation of a suspended sentence.

Terrorised

Detective Inspector Gemma Pawley, of the West Kent Vulnerability Investigation Team, said: ‘Knowles is a violent bully who put his victim through a traumatic ordeal and terrorised her for more than a year. 'She showed immense courage in contacting the police and it is entirely right that Knowles is now serving a prison sentence for his crimes. ‘Violence against women and girls remains a key priority for Kent Police and we continue to urge victims to come forward, confident in the knowledge they will receive the best possible service. 'Remember, you are not to blame for what is happening and you can report it to us or contact several support organisations who can and will assist you.’

For more information on how the force is tackling Violence Against Women and Girls and for safety advice visit our dedicated website page.