A MAN who beat up his girlfriend and threatened to cut her throat if she gave evidence against him,has avoided being sent to jail.

Paul Law was given a suspended prison term at Oxford Crown Court yesterday after admitting two counts of assault and one of witness intimidation.

Judge Anthony King said he made the decision not to jail the 26-year-old “with some hesitation,” but said Law should be given professional help, not available in prison, to combat his drinking and violence problems.

Law, who has previous convictions for assault, battery, affray, threatening behaviour and wounding with intent, attacked his then partner Cara Kilian in Eynsham on February 17.

When she sought refuge at a friend’s house, Law went to the property the following day, climbed through a downstairs window and pushed her on to a sofa before hitting her.

Roger Coventry, prosecuting, told the court that Law, of Hanborough Road, Eynsham, was due to stand trial for the assaults on July 8, but telephoned Miss Kilian and warned her: “If you turn up at court I will find you and slit your throat.”

Daniel Wright, defending, said his client has ADHD and a drink problem. He said the electrician had been drinking before the assault after being told he would be made redundant.

Law was given 350 days’ prison, suspended for two years, ordered to undertake the domestic-violence programme and given a two-year restraining order in relation to his former partner.