A Birmingham man who dragged a screaming woman away from a 999 emergency call and subjected her to a campaign of domestic abuse has been jailed for 28 months, West Midlands Police has confirmed.
The incident and immediate response
Michael O'Grady, 34, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and coercive and controlling behaviour at Birmingham Crown Court on 14 March 2025. The court heard that the offences occurred between January and February 2025.
On 11 February 2025, the victim managed to dial 999 while O'Grady was assaulting her. During the call, O'Grady grabbed the phone and dragged the woman away from the line, with the operator hearing her screaming in the background. Police were dispatched to the scene and arrested O'Grady.
The victim later told officers that O'Grady had repeatedly assaulted her, including punching her in the face, pulling her hair, and threatening to kill her. She also reported that he had isolated her from friends and family, controlled her finances, and monitored her movements.
Court proceedings and sentence
At the sentencing hearing, the judge described O'Grady's behaviour as "appalling" and noted the significant impact on the victim. The court was told that the victim had suffered from anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of the abuse.
Detective Constable Sarah Jones, from West Midlands Police's public protection unit, said: "This was a sustained and horrific campaign of abuse against a vulnerable woman. O'Grady's actions were callous and controlling, and he showed no remorse for his behaviour. I am pleased that he has been brought to justice and that the victim can now begin to rebuild her life."
O'Grady was sentenced to 28 months in prison for assault occasioning actual bodily harm and a concurrent 20-month sentence for coercive and controlling behaviour. He was also made subject to a restraining order, which prohibits him from contacting the victim for 10 years.
Impact and support for victims
West Midlands Police has urged anyone experiencing domestic abuse to come forward and seek help. The force has a dedicated public protection unit that works with partners to support victims and bring perpetrators to justice.
Detective Constable Jones added: "We want to reassure victims that we take all reports of domestic abuse seriously. We have specially trained officers who can provide support and advice, and we will do everything we can to protect you and bring offenders to justice."
The victim, who has been supported by specialist domestic abuse charities throughout the investigation, said she felt "relieved" that O'Grady had been jailed and hoped it would help her move on from the trauma.
