Man sentenced for assaulting a Wiltshire woman

Thursday, 17 August 2023 01:00

A 51-year-old man has been sentenced to 18 months in prison and disqualified from driving for drink driving and assaulting a Wiltshire woman.

Matthew Ponchaud, of Bournemouth, was sentenced at Salisbury Crown Court on August 11.

He pleaded guilty to the intentional strangulation of a woman in Tisbury and common assault.

It follows an incident at an address in Tisbury on November 12, 2022.

Ponchaud then made several phone calls to his victim, in breach of his bail conditions, and on January 9th threatened to kill her if she did not drop the charges.

Further to this, on March 7th he was stopped on the High Street, Hindon and blew 74 at the roadside and was arrested for drink driving.

Local Crime Investigator for Wiltshire Police Martin Batchelor said: “I want to pay tribute to Ponchaud’s victim who, despite intimidation, continued to bravely speak to us about what had happened so that we were able to bring him to justice.

“We would always urge anyone who has been the victim of abuse, no matter when the offences occurred, to come forward and speak to police. We have specially-trained teams to investigate these types of crimes, and we will deal with your report sensitively.”

More from Local News

Wiltshire Council strengthens commitment to tackling violence against women and girls

Wiltshire Council has reaffirmed its commitment to ending violence against women and girls (EVAWG) by agreeing to appoint a dedicated councillor champion to help drive awareness, support partnership working and ensure the issue remains a priority across the organisation.
A second look could save a life - motorists urged to look again for bikers

Wiltshire Police are urging motorists to take a second look for motorcyclists when using the county's roads.
World Cup campaign sees reduction in drink drive offences and increase in domestic abuse reporting

A Wiltshire Police campaign aimed at tackling drink driving and raising awareness of domestic abuse support during the FIFA World Cup has led to a decrease in drink drive offences and a rise in domestic abuse-related reporting.
Trek the Sahara Desert in support of Salisbury Hospital’s Stars Appeal

The Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s Charity, is looking for adventurous supporters to take on a 100km Sahara Desert trek challenge.
Motorcyclist sustains serious injuries following collision on A30

A man has sustained life-changing injuries following a road traffic collision on the A30 in Fovant.
Local clothing store Daliz brings an afternoon of free live music to Salisbury

Music lovers are invited to enjoy an afternoon of live performances as independent clothing store Daliz hosts Daliz Day Fest on Saturday 25th July at Cross Keys, Salisbury.
Cast Announced for Haunting of Hill House Salisbury Playhouse Production

The stage adaptation of Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House, adapted by Olivier and BAFTA Award-winning writer Stef Smith, has announced its full cast ahead of its world premiere at Salisbury Playhouse this autumn.
Salisbury City Council announce plans to celebrate Salisbury 800

A landmark celebration marking the city's 800th birthday will bring people together on Sunday 25 July 2027, with Salisbury City Council having revealed the first exciting plans for a day of festivities and inviting the community to help make history.