Ben Steel

A domestic abuser who admitted to attacking his partner has been jailed for more than four years.

Ben Steel assaulted the victim multiple times over a three-month period. On one occasion, he assaulted her outside his property before telling her to go inside so her injuries would not be seen.

He also subjected to her other forms of abuse, including making violent threats and repeatedly messaging her about her whereabouts and movements.

After the victim spoke to a family member who raised concerns about the relationship, Steel used a knife to destroy her phone.

The 23-year-old of Ashburnham Road, Luton, pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm, criminal damage and breaching a previous restraining order.

He was sentenced on Thursday (11 June) at Luton Crown Court to a total of four years and two months in prison, with a 10-month extended licence period. An indefinite restraining order was also imposed.

Detective Sergeant Tom Dion-Fehily said: “Steel used violence and threats to intimidate and exert control over the victim, creating fear where there should have been trust and safety, and the sentencing he has received reflects the severity of his actions.

“Domestic abuse is a choice made by the perpetrator, and our message is clear – there is no excuse for it.

“We remain committed to tackling all forms of male violence against women and girls, protecting those at risk and ensuring those responsible are held fully accountable and made to face the consequences of their actions.”

To find out more about the work the force is doing to tackle perpetrators of male violence against women and girls, visit beds.police.uk/police-forces/bedfordshire-police/areas/campaigns/campaigns/male-violence-against-women-and-girls/