Rachael Lythe, 32, of no fixed abode, Brandon, Durham, appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on August 7The court heard that on July 15, 2026, Lythe assaulted the man, causing him actual bodily harm. The court decided that the offence was so serious only a custodial sentence was justified. Reasons included injuries caused to the man, Lythe’s previous violent convictions, and two recent breaches of a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) against the man. She has also served a previous custodial sentence having caused injuries to him. Probation also assessed Lythe as "high risk" for further violence to partners.