Medway Man Jailed Nearly 3 Years for Brutal Online Abuse
Liam Battelle, 31, from Medway, has been locked up for two years and ten months after months of violent, controlling abuse towards a woman he met on social media. Battelle, already a convicted sex offender, moved into the victim’s home early last year, where his terrifying behaviour quickly spiralled.
Jealousy, Control and Threats of Acid Attacks
Police revealed Battelle’s jealousy was extreme. He bombarded the victim with accusations of cheating and demanded permission for even the smallest things—like using her phone. He monitored her calls, limited her movements, and shockingly forbade her from using the bathroom alone.
His darkest threat? Warning he would throw acid in her face if she tried to leave. These horrors turned the victim against her own family and friends, while physical assaults happened regularly.
Financial Abuse and Breach of Sex Offenders Register
But the nightmare didn’t stop there. Battelle used the woman’s bank card for his own spending and wrecked her property. He was arrested on July 11 and charged with controlling and coercive behaviour, plus two breaches of the sex offenders register linked to a 2019 conviction—he failed to notify police about his change of residence within three days.
Justice Served at Maidstone Crown Court
After pleading guilty at Maidstone Crown Court, Battelle was sentenced on October 24, 2024. He will also face a seven-year restraining order once released.
“This appalling man made his victim’s life a misery… I hope she can move on with her life now he is safely behind bars,” said Detective Constable Grant Miles-Wilson, praising the woman’s bravery for coming forward.
