A Townsville man has been sentenced to prison after pleading guilty to choking his partner during a violent domestic assault that left the victim fearing for her life.
Violent Attack in Townsville Home
Adam Michael King, 32, faced the Townsville District Court where details emerged of the terrifying assault that occurred on February 12, 2023. The court heard how King attacked his partner inside their Townsville residence, applying pressure to her throat until she struggled to breathe.
Judge Gregory Lynham described the attack as "cowardly" and noted the profound impact it had on the victim. During sentencing, the judge emphasized that domestic violence, particularly choking offenses, must be treated with the utmost seriousness by Queensland courts.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
King appeared before the Townsville District Court where he pleaded guilty to the choking assault charge. The court considered both the severity of the offense and King's early plea when determining the appropriate sentence.
King received an 18-month prison sentence, with the court ordering he serve at least four months behind bars before becoming eligible for parole. The sentence reflects Queensland's tougher stance on domestic violence offenses, particularly those involving choking or strangulation.
Judge Lynham noted that such attacks create not only physical danger but also significant psychological trauma for victims. The court heard how the victim continues to experience ongoing fear and anxiety following the assault.
Growing Concern Over Domestic Violence
This case comes amid increasing community concern about domestic violence rates in North Queensland. Legal experts note that choking offenses are particularly dangerous as they can cause serious injury or death, even when the perpetrator doesn't intend fatal consequences.
Queensland law now treats non-fatal strangulation as a specific criminal offense with maximum penalties of seven years imprisonment. This legislative change acknowledges the particular dangers associated with choking attacks in domestic situations.
Domestic violence support services in Townsville have reported increased demand for their services, highlighting the need for continued community education and support for victims.
The sentencing serves as a reminder that Queensland courts take domestic violence seriously, particularly when it involves attacks that threaten a victim's ability to breathe. Community organizations continue to encourage victims to seek help and report domestic violence incidents to authorities.
