A 'CONTROLLING' man who was violent and threatening towards his partner is the first person in Worcestershire to be jailed following a change in the law.

Kyle Scott admitted 'controlling and coercive behaviour' towards his partner in Worcester when he appeared at the city's crown court.

The 23-year-old of Lincoln, who attacked the woman with a knife and blocked her from using Facebook, was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment and given a restraining order.

After forming a relationship with the victim he gradually began to control the relationship said West Mercia Police.

Scott subjected her to weeks of threatening and violent behaviour including using a knife to assault her, damaging her property, blocking her social media accounts, taking her car keys and using psychological abuse.

The offence of controlling and coercive behaviour is part of the Serious Crime Act 2015.

The offence carries a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment.

His conviction for using coercive and controlling behaviour is the first of its kind in West Mercia policing areas.

Detective Chief Inspector Vikki Reay said: "I hope that this conviction demonstrates our commitment to victims and that our officers will do everything in their power to bring offenders to justice. "I would also like to praise the bravery and courage shown by the victim and her friend, who also witnessed some of Scott's controlling and violent behaviour.

"Domestic abuse is an offence which can have severe emotional and physical effects and we want those suffering, or at risk of suffering, to know that there is help, advice and support available.

"Some victims suffer controlling and coercive behaviour for a long time, with their partner's behaviour gradually getting worse.

"We have specially trained officers working across West Mercia Police who will do everything possible to safeguard those who are vulnerable.

Report domestic abuse by calling 101. If a crime is ongoing always call 999.

If you have been a victim, or witnessed domestic abuse and do not wish to speak to the police, you can contact West Mercia Women's Aid.

The number is 0800 980 3331 in Worcestershire and 0800 783 1359 in Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford.