A Dungiven man has been sentenced to 26 months in prison for strangling his former partner.

Cahir Deeney, 38, from the Feeney Road, pleaded guilty at Antrim Crown Court to non-fatal strangulation.

The court heard the offence occurred on 8 December 2024 in Portstewart after the couple had been drinking together.

An argument took place outside the victim's home over who held the door key. Deeney grabbed the woman by the neck and they fell to the ground.

The victim described feeling extreme pain and being unable to breathe. She said she remained on the ground, playing dead, after the first attack.

Deeney grabbed her by the neck a second time. The victim later escaped to a nearby property and contacted police.

Judge Sandra Crawford ordered Deeney to serve 13 months in custody and the remainder on supervised licence. The judge noted the victim has suffered psychological harm.