Broadwater domestic abuser jailed for strangling woman and witness intimidation

A Broadwater domestic abuser who strangled a woman and repeatedly attempted to intimidate her from prison has been jailed for four and a half years.

Thomas Taylor, 30, of West Court Place, Broadwater, left his victim — a woman known to him — living in fear. During the abuse he intentionally strangled her and threatened to disclose private intimate images in a bid to exert control.

The victim bravely came forward to report the abuse to Sussex Police, triggering Taylor’s arrest and prosecution. Despite being remanded into custody, he continued attempts to intimidate the victim while on remand in prison, leading to an additional charge of witness intimidation.

At Lewes Crown Court on 21 November, Taylor was sentenced for:

Taylor was found guilty of intentional strangulation following a trial in September. He also admitted threatening to disclose intimate images, offences said to have escalated after consuming drugs including cocaine.

The victim— still living with ongoing trauma — told the court:
“His behaviour became more volatile, frightening and dangerous over time. I lived in a constant state of alert… because it wasn’t always me, but it would be my fault somehow due to his cocaine-fuelled delusions.”

She added:
“I am still impacted by the trauma he caused and the ongoing fear of what he will do next.”

The court ruled Taylor posed a continued risk, imposing an ‘extended sentence due to dangerousness’ — meaning he will not be automatically released at the halfway point. Instead, he may only apply for parole after serving two-thirds of his 4.5-year sentence.

If parole is granted, Taylor will remain on licence for the remainder of the sentence, and serve an additional three years on extended licence. He has also been made subject to a restraining order banning contact with the victim until 2040.

‘Victim’s courage brought justice’, says Sussex Police investigator

Speaking after sentencing, Investigator Lucy Davison said:
“We take reports of domestic abuse and violence extremely seriously, and were determined to get justice. Taylor is a dangerous individual, and this is reflected in the extended sentence passed by the court.”

Sussex Police launch Violence Against Women and Girls safety survey

The sentencing comes as Sussex Police continues efforts to improve its response to Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).

Last month, the force launched a new VAWG Survey, seeking feedback from women and girls about public safety in Sussex. The consultation opened on 18 November and will run for five weeks.

Detective Superintendent Karrie Bohanna said:
“Protecting women and girls and bringing perpetrators to justice remains a priority. Every report of violence… is one too many. The insight we gain helps ensure our plans are informed by the voices of the community.”