A migrant accused of strangling and repeatedly punching his former partner at a taxpayer-funded hotel has been spared prison.
Mamadou Alion Diallo, 28, violently attacked Zenabou Quedraogo at the Heston Hyde Hotel in Hounslow, West London, on 23 October 2024. After they split, Diallo returned on 4 January last year to assault her again.
Brutal Attacks Covered Up Until Second Assault
Guests heard Ms Quedraogo screaming in the corridor, prompting a police call. She suffered a massive bruise and needed medical treatment after the second incident.
Born in Guinea, Diallo has lived in several countries before coming to the UK. His asylum claim is still pending, Isleworth Crown Court heard.
Despite his denials, Diallo was convicted of intentional strangulation and assault by beating.
Details of the Abuse Revealed in Court
Prosecutor Sue Obeney painted a grim picture of their “abusive relationship” at the Heston Hyde Hotel.
“There was an argument. He demanded her mobile phone, grabbed her hand, and slapped her, causing her to fall. He pushed her and punched her forehead, hitting her upper body. He put his hand around her neck, stopping her breathing for about five seconds,” she told the court.
Police were called after the first incident, but Ms Quedraogo initially refused to make a statement. It was only after the second attack that she supported the prosecution.
After their split, Diallo moved to another migrant hotel but returned to Heston Hyde. Arguments over money escalated when Diallo demanded Ms Quedraogo cover his phone costs.
“He punched her head, causing a lump. She hit back, but he then struck her very hard,” Ms Obeney said.
Another hotel resident witnessed Diallo hitting Ms Quedraogo five or six times on the head and pushing her into a room. Paramedics noted serious bruising to her head upon police arrival.
Judge Suspends Jail Sentence, Citing Mental Health
In a victim impact statement, Ms Quedraogo revealed the attacks left her stressed, sleepless, and ashamed, especially after being witnessed by hotel guests.
Diallo’s defence highlighted his “complex history of PTSD and depression.” Judge Mr Recorder Robert Ward acknowledged this “provides context” but does not excuse the violent behaviour.
The judge said: “There is uncertainty about your age—you are in your 20s. A custodial sentence would have a significant impact on you. There is a prospect of rehabilitation.”
Diallo was sentenced to 21 months in prison, suspended for 18 months, with a 12-month supervision order. He must also engage with Newham Community Integrated Mental Health Services and complete 25 days of rehabilitation activity in the coming year.
Additionally, a five-year restraining order bars Diallo from contacting Ms Quedraogo.
