Sunderland brute attacked ex-partner in her own home

Ross Smith had not long come out of a four-and-a-half year relationship with the woman when he launched the assault on October 25 last year.

Newcastle Crown Court heard that the 22-year-old also pushed and slapped the woman's friend who tried to intervene.

He then left the address and turned up at his ex's father's home, where he became involved in a struggle and threatened to kill his dog.

Prosecutor Jane Foley said that Smith returned to the woman's home in Sunderland in the early hours after previously being asked to leave.

Ms Foley said: "He returned about half an hour later and entered her home without her permission and began helping himself to food from her fridge.

"She repeatedly asked him to leave but the defendant refused and sat down on her sofa and asked if she wanted a cigarette.

"It was then the defendant lost control and began to shout and scream at her.

"He grabbed her by her hair and began to strangle her by placing both hands around her neck."

After releasing his grip and telling his victim "you're dead, you're dead", Smith dragged her across the living room floor before throwing her to the ground.