Charlie Stefano, 35, from Dagenham, east London, has been jailed for two years and ten months after admitting charges of intentional strangulation and causing actual bodily harm at Maidstone Crown Court. The court heard that in the early hours of February 13, Stefano assaulted a woman in Chatham, Kent, grabbing her by the throat twice, dragging her across the floor, holding her over a staircase, and snapping her phone in half.
Assault and Arrest
The victim fled the address and ran to a petrol station when Stefano attempted to check whether neighbours had called the police. Stefano was tracked down and arrested hours later. During his mugshot, he stuck his tongue out for the camera.
Court Proceedings
Stefano admitted charges of intentional strangulation and causing actual bodily harm. Two further charges of criminal damage and engaging in coercive and controlling behaviour were ordered to lie on file. He was sentenced to two years and ten months in prison and given a six-year restraining order.
Police Comment
Detective Sergeant Leighton Prior said: 'A woman has been traumatised by Stefano's actions and I hope the prison sentence and restraining order could bring her some closure. I would like to commend her courage in supporting his prosecution and ensuring a man who is a clear danger to women is now behind bars.'
