Brutal boyfriend jailed for choking girlfriend and leaving her with permanent injuries
Horrific abuse inside and abroad
In 2022, Nuno Rodrigues subjected his girlfriend to relentless violence. At home, he pinned her to the ground, hands strangling her neck, cutting off her air and leaving bruises. The nightmare didn’t stop there.
While on holiday in Madeira, Rodrigues attacked her multiple times. The abuse was so severe it caused permanent numbness on one side of her mouth. He also threatened her with a knife, warned he would share private images, and repeatedly punched her face.
Escape and arrest
On 5 December 2022, Rodrigues grabbed her throat again, threatening to kill her if she called the police and blocking her exit. But the victim managed to flee and confided in a colleague, who alerted the authorities.
Rodrigues, from Playstool Road, Newington, was arrested the very next day. At Maidstone Crown Court, he pleaded guilty to coercive control and assault causing actual bodily harm. The 28-year-old was sentenced on 19 December 2023 to three years behind bars and slapped with an indefinite restraining order.
Police praise victim’s courage
PC Chelsea Clare of the North Kent Vulnerability Investigation Team condemned Rodrigues as “an abusive bully” who terrorised his victim over months.
“This was an appalling ordeal for a woman who has suffered lasting injuries as a result. Rodrigues is now in jail and no longer a threat. She has shown immense courage in helping us bring this individual to justice. I urge anyone suffering abuse to reach out to a friend, trusted colleague, or the police. We will listen and act to keep you safe.”
