A vicious abuser who slashed his victim's leg with a knife has been jailed.

Nigel Doherty repeatedly punched and kicked the woman in the head during a violent assault in her own home in Maidstone town centre.

Police were called to the property following reports of screaming and when officers arrived they discovered his victim inside with multiple injuries.

Doherty was arrested later that evening, September 10, and an investigation later revealed previous attacks on the woman, one of which saw him cut his victim's leg with a knife.

The 43-year-old appeared before Maidstone Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm, assault by beating, common assault, possessing a knife in a public place and wounding or inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent.

A further charge of wounding with intent to do grievous bodily harm was ordered by the court to lie on file.

On Friday Doherty was sentenced to two years and six months’ imprisonment.

Investigating officer PC Geena Beddoes said: "Doherty subjected his victim to a number of horrific attacks, including one where he kicked her so hard the force of the assault caused her head to strike a wall.

"As well as the appalling violence, Doherty's victim has endured relentless mental anguish and I sincerely hope she can now take some comfort from this sentence and is able to move on with her life.

"Domestic violence is a priority for Kent Police and I would encourage anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation or relationship to report it to someone and get help.

"There is a range of support and information available, just phone us or ask a trusted friend or relative to do it. Nobody should feel they don’t have the option to walk away from domestic abuse."

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