Derbyshire ex-RAF man with untreated PTSD hurled pliers at partner, court hears

A former north Derbyshire RAF veteran with untreated PTSD who served in war zones for 17 years harassed and assaulted his partner - hurling a pair of pliers at her in a spat.
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Ricky Howson, 43, began cutting plugs to the washing machine and tumble drier at the home he shared with his other half following a row over a speeding fine received in the post.

Becky Allsop, prosecuting, described how as their young daughter became “more and more upset” Howson launched the pliers - which hit his partner in the leg.

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When she heard the knife block “rattling” as Howson said “I’m going to slit your throat” the row spilled outside as she ran to the car with their daughter to call the police.

Howson was diagnosed with PTSD after leaving the RAF in 2012, however no mental health intervention had been in placeHowson was diagnosed with PTSD after leaving the RAF in 2012, however no mental health intervention had been in place
Howson was diagnosed with PTSD after leaving the RAF in 2012, however no mental health intervention had been in place

Ms Allsop added: “Mr Howson came outside and said ‘do not go back inside, or else’ with his hand to his throat in a slitting action.”

Following the September 21 incident at their Shirebrook home Howson was released on bail after his arrest - but five days later he turned up at his partner’s food van business.

Prosecutor Ms Allsop said: “On September 26 she received pictures of an unknown female.”

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Howson later alleged the photos were of his now ex-partner and had been posted on “various dating websites”.

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After demanding she “admit” the photos were of herself Howson “jumped through the serving hatch” of the food van then chased his frightened ex around it.

The defendant drove off when she climbed into her car and called police.

Kirsten Collings, Howson’s solicitor, told the court he had been diagnosed with PTSD after leaving the RAF in 2012, however no mental health intervention had been in place.

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She added that during his 17 years of service her client witnessed the deaths of people “in front of him” while serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Howson, of Hereward Close, admitted assault by beating and threatening behaviour.

He was jailed for 24 weeks suspended for two years and handed a five-year restraining order.

The defendant, a racing car mechanic, was also ordered to complete 80 hours unpaid work, a 31-day building better relationships programme and 15 rehabilitation activity days.

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He was made to pay £500 compensation, £85 court costs and a £128 victim surcharge.

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