A Langley Park man was sentenced for assaulting his partner, who feared for her life during repeated attacks.
The first incident happened April 17, 2023. Gibson was upset about a car repair bill and pinned her to the sofa. He used his forearm on her neck and held her wrists, restricting her breathing for about thirty seconds. This caused jaw swelling and a burst blood vessel.
Six days later, he had a Durham appointment concerning his Universal Credit payments. He argued about transport from Langley Park, as their car was still out of service. She suggested taking the bus, but he shouted and was abusive. She offered a ride or a taxi.
Gibson then put her in a headlock, pinning her down for around two minutes. He took her phone and refused to return it. She used a computer game to message a friend, urging her friend to call the police.
Gibson had been using cannabis, and his partner felt he spoke irrationally. He resumed throwing her on the floor, repeatedly asking her what he had done. She apologized, even though she was not at fault, but Gibson still wouldn’t let her use the toilet. He pinned her down by her neck again. Police arrived after her friend’s message. Gibson unlocked the door, ending her ordeal, leaving her heavily bruised.
Her statement described her fear of his actions and feeling “in a state of shock.” Her mental health suffered. She received anxiety medication and experienced panic attacks and night terrors. She became afraid to leave home and distrusted men, even people she knew.
Over time, she gained confidence, could dress how she liked, and controlled her finances. She reconnected with her family, something Gibson had previously prevented.
Gibson, 34, had no prior convictions. He pleaded guilty to assault charges, admitting causing actual bodily harm twice, and also common assault. This happened on his trial day last year.
His lawyer said Gibson saw the prison mental health team and stopped using cannabis after long term use. He worried about losing his South Shields flat, where he stayed while on bail.
Judge Mitchell considered the cannabis use and stated Gibson knew his actions were cruel. “You attacked your partner repeatedly,” the judge commented. “She was a prisoner in her own home,” he added, noting she had “no means of escape.” She submitted after he covered her mouth and said that he would not let her breathe. “I consider it a serious assault, indeed”.
Judge Mitchell imposed a 27-month sentence. He could not suspend the sentence, stating, “The right punishment can only be achieved by immediate custody.” He issued a restraining order, preventing Gibson from contacting her for seven years.