A MAN has been jailed for seven and a half years after violently assaulting and controlling his ex-partner.

David Kemp, 44, of Hillside Terrace in Braintree, pleaded guilty to kidnap, coercive and controlling behaviour, and threats to kill at Chelmsford Crown Court on August 5.

Kemp dated the victim for six months, controlling her every move.

On one occasion, after she tried to escape, Kemp chased her, physically assaulted her, and dragged her back to the vehicle.

He then threatened her and said that if she ever tried to escape him again, he would “bury her alive”.

After the victim reported her ordeal to the Domestic Abuse Investigation Team, Kemp was charged.

He was also deemed a dangerous offender and was issued with a restraining order.

On Tuesday December 21, Kemp was sentenced to seven years and six months in prison at Chelmsford Crown Court.

Domestic Abuse Investigation Officer DC Jonathan Straight, the investigating officer on the case, said: “Kemp’s treatment of his ex-partner, someone he claimed to love and care for, was nothing short of horrifying.

“Her life was made a complete misery at his hands.

“As a means of control, Kemp tried to convince his ex-partner that if she were to report her ordeal to the police, she wouldn’t be believed.

“If this is something you’re being told by your partner, relative or anyone that is abusing or attempting to control you, it is simply not true.

“We take all reports of this nature seriously, we will listen, and we are here for you."

If you, or someone you know, may be suffering from abuse, stalking or harassment, please report it.

If you’re concerned by your partner’s behaviour, Clare’s Law also allows people who think they may have a violent partner to request information about them.

Further information can be found at essex.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/daa/domestic-abuse.

If you are a victim of violence, or know someone who is, you can also seek support and find community resources by visiting setdab.org.