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A violent bully who beat and tormented his partner has been sentenced to almost five years’ imprisonment.
Luke Seffens was tracked down with the help of a police dog during a foot chase which led officers through woodland and rivers near Tunbridge Wells.
Seffens was responsible for a period of sustained abuse and threats against a woman, between September and December 2023.
These included random acts of violence, making her take photos on her phone to prove where she was and following the victim to her workplace.
On 4 December 2023, he beat the victim repeatedly during an unprovoked attack in a flat and broke a coffee mug on her head.
He wouldn’t let her leave and made threats to stab and strangle her. The victim managed to flee to safety on the following day and Seffens was arrested.
He was charged by police but granted conditional bail by the courts pending the outcome of a trial.
Despite the strict measures imposed, Seffens continued to contact the victim.
On 31 July 2024, he ran from officers as he was about to be arrested again in the centre of Tunbridge Wells.
A lengthy pursuit followed, assisted by Police Dog Elsa. This led to Seffens being tracked into woodland near Vauxhall Lane, where he was successfully detained.
Seffens, 34, of Powder Mill Lane, Tunbridge Wells went on to plead guilty to charges of false imprisonment, engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, escape from lawful custody, criminal damage, and threats to damage property.
Charges of intentional strangulation, as well as a further period of controlling and coercive behaviour were ordered by the court to lie on file.
On 28 January 2025, Seffens was sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court to four years and nine months’ imprisonment. He was also made subject of an indefinite restraining order.
Detective Constable Max Jordan said:
‘Seffens abused, isolated and tormented his victim during the vast majority of their relationship. He used fear, violence and intimidation to exert control over almost every aspect of her life and his actions have caused immeasurable fear and distress. 'The victim has shown incredible courage and strength to give evidence and I hope this sentence will afford them the time and space needed to help break away from Seffen’s control and allow her to move on with her life. ‘We continue to urge all victims of domestic abuse 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 help you.’
Further information about domestic abuse can be found on our advice and information pages.
If you have been a victim you can use our online reporting service. Always call 999 in an emergency.