A Timperley man has been sentenced to more than three years in prison after subjecting his partner to a sustained campaign of violence, coercive control and intimidation that left the victim and her children living in fear.
Michael Bradbury, 39, of Oakley Court, Timperley, was found guilty of controlling and coercive behaviour and harassment with violence to secure entry at Manchester Crown Court on 5 November 2025.
He was sentenced today to three years and four weeks imprisonment.
The court heard harrowing details of how Bradbury’s abusive behaviour escalated over a five-year period, culminating in a violent attack in November 2023 that was witnessed by the victim’s teenage daughter.
During that incident, Bradbury forced entry to the victim’s home by kicking through glass patio doors before launching a brutal assault. The victim’s daughter witnessed the attack and attempted to intervene, but Bradbury continued relentlessly. In a desperate attempt to protect her parent, she struck Bradbury over the head whilst her boyfriend called 999.
The victim fled to a neighbour’s home and was later taken to hospital for emergency treatment for significant injuries. CCTV footage captured the incident, which was further supported by medical evidence and witness statements.
Following the attack, police established that this violent episode formed part of a much wider pattern of controlling, threatening and violent behaviour that had previously gone unreported.
Bradbury was found hiding in the attic of another property and was arrested.
Despite denying responsibility during police interviews, the evidence against him proved overwhelming.
“I thought he was going to kill me”
In a powerful victim impact statement read to the court, the victim described the devastating toll Bradbury’s abuse had taken on their life and family.
“I feel like I’ve wasted five years of my life. Before I met him, I was confident and happy, building a good life for my kids. Now everything has fallen apart,” the victim said.
The statement revealed the financial cost of the abuse, with thousands spent repairing damage Bradbury caused to vehicles and property, and the victim taking two pay cuts totalling £10,000 annually “just to keep him calm.”
The victim described installing security cameras and lighting, and having their father build a barricade in the bedroom so they could lock themselves and the children in if Bradbury appeared.
“It’s still there - a reminder of how frightened I was and still am. I thought he was going to kill me,” they said.
The impact on the children was particularly distressing, with one child now suffering anxiety and panic attacks, whilst another witnessed traumatic events that may affect their understanding of healthy relationships
“I’ve lost time, confidence, and trust. I feel broken, ashamed, and humiliated,” the victim added, expressing a desire to simply “move on” and reclaim their life.
Police praise victim’s courage
Detective Constable Grace Ellcock, who led the investigation, commended the victim’s bravery in coming forward and supporting the prosecution.
“The bravery shown by the victim in coming forward to report ongoing abuse, and fully supporting the prosecution, has been instrumental in bringing a dangerous offender to justice,” DC Ellcock said.
She emphasised the police’s dedication to protecting women and girls and listening to anyone who comes forward to report abuse.
“I hope this case demonstrates our commitment to acting on what we are told and tackling domestic abuse and coercive control head on,” she added.
DC Ellock urged anyone experiencing abuse to come forward so police can help keep them and their families safe.
