Ex-Husband Strangles Ex-Wife After Boozy Night – But Avoids Jail
Evaldino Oliveira, 53, from Hurst Street in Herne Hill, South East London, has dodged prison after admitting to strangling his ex-wife following a drunken row.
Attack Following Night of Heavy Drinking
The shocking incident took place on October 29, 2023. Oliveira returned home drunk and forced his way into the shared house. There, he confronted his ex-wife and pinned her down on the bed. Prosecutors say he placed both hands around her neck and squeezed hard, cutting off her air supply.
Heroic Intervention and Quick Police Action
Prosecutor Frances McCormack described the terrifying moment in court. It was only when another woman in the house intervened that Oliveira released the victim. Police were called immediately, and Oliveira was arrested on the spot.
During his police interview, Oliveira claimed he grabbed his ex-wife’s throat to “calm her down.” The following day, he faced Croydon Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to intentional strangulation, assault by beating, and damaging her iPhone.
Suspended Sentence Shocks Court
On January 19, 2024, Oliveira appeared at Inner London Crown Court via video link from Wandsworth Prison for sentencing. Judge Jane Rowley handed down an 18-month suspended sentence and slapped him with a two-year restraining order.
The judge stressed suspended sentences are rare in cases like this. However, Oliveira’s early guilty plea and previously clean record played a key role. He was also ordered to pay £1,000 compensation to his ex-wife.
Justice Served, But Debate Over Sentence Remains
This case highlights the brutal reality of domestic violence and the legal consequences offenders face. It also raises questions about when suspended sentences are appropriate, balancing remorse and past conduct against the severity of the crime.
