A man has been convicted for controlling and violently beating a woman in her twenties.

Callum Walsh, 29, formerly of Warren Road in Barnham, first met his victim in December last year.

Walsh subjected the woman to paranoid, coercive and threatening behaviour, attempting to control where she went and who she saw.

The abuse lasted for many weeks, and when Walsh felt the woman had fallen out of his control, he would violently assault her.

Walsh carried out a final, prolonged assault on his victim in the early hours of January 14. She was able to escape her property and call the emergency services.

Police attended, put safeguarding measures in place to protect her and urgently sought Walsh’s arrest.

He was subsequently arrested in Cornwall and charged with non-fatal strangulation, causing actual bodily harm and engaging in coercive/controlling behaviour and remanded in custody.

Walsh pleaded guilty to non-fatal strangulation at Lewes Crown Court on November 8. Charges of actual bodily harm and coercive/controlling behaviour will remain on file.

Walsh is due to be sentenced at a court to be confirmed on 22 December.

Detective Constable Angela De Vivo said: “Victims of violent, controlling men like Callum Walsh do not have to suffer in silence.

“His victim in this instance was left terrified but has shown incredible bravery in reporting and supporting the investigation.

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“We were able to protect her from any further harm and Walsh has now been brought to justice, remanded in custody where he can cause no harm to other women.

“If you or someone you know is in an abusive or controlling relationship, please report it to police online, via 101 or by dialling 999 in an emergency.

“We have a range of discreet methods of reporting and accessing support without your abuser finding out. For more information visit our domestic abuse advice webpage.”