Alloa, Scotland — A 23-year-old man has been sentenced to two years in prison for a violent campaign of domestic abuse against his partner, which included an incident where he assaulted her while driving at high speeds on a busy dual carriageway. Mujtaba Choudry’s actions, described by a sheriff as “controlling, violent, and manipulative,” unfolded over a six-month period that began in October 2022.
The court was informed that Choudry attacked his partner after she expressed her desire to end their relationship. During the confrontation, he grabbed her hair and forced her head against the door of the car he was driving on the A720 Edinburgh bypass. This act of aggression exemplified a broader pattern of abusive behavior that had been previously reported, highlighting Choudry’s ongoing struggle with controlling his impulses.
Choudry has a prior conviction for abuse against the same woman, marking this incident as his first time serving a prison sentence. Evidence presented to the Stirling Sheriff Court indicated that he had restricted her access to social media, frequently called her when she was with friends, and even threatened to harm himself when she discussed their breakup. Testimonies revealed that he would express anger whenever she made plans outside of their relationship, underscoring the psychological control he exerted.
In one incident, Choudry was found to have physically assaulted her by compressing her neck, kicking her, and even dragging her across the floor. Despite a court order mandating him to refrain from contacting her, he continued to violate this directive, illustrating his blatant disregard for legal boundaries.
A social background report assessed Choudry as posing “maximum risk” for reoffending, indicating deep-rooted issues with violence and control. His defense attorney, Robert Smith, argued that Choudry displayed “genuine remorse and shame” for his actions; however, the sheriff emphasized the severity of his behavior.
Sheriff Euan Gosney, who presided over the case, characterized Choudry’s actions as part of a “protracted pattern of abuse” and expressed concern over the risks posed to both the victim and others on the road during the assault. He described the recklessness of Choudry’s conduct as endangering not just the victim but also other motorists.
As part of the sentencing, Choudry will be subject to a year of supervision upon his release and has been issued a non-harassment order that prohibits him from contacting the victim for a decade. The court’s decision aims to ensure the victim’s safety and to address Choudry’s concerning behavioral tendencies. The case highlights ongoing issues of domestic violence and the critical need for legal interventions to protect victims.