Limavady man who kicked pregnant girlfriend in the stomach jailed

A man who kicked his pregnant girlfriend in the stomach and also kicked a 11 week old pup causing it to be sick has been jailed at Derry Crown Court. 

Jordan Kavanagh (29) of Rathbrady Road in Limavady was charged with a series of offences including non-fatal strangulation, assaulting the woman and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. 

All of the offences occurred on December 13, 2023.

Before passing sentence Judge Neil Rafferty KC praised the victim for taking the case and said she had been 'totally vindicated'.

Describing the case as 'disgraceful and upsetting' the judge said the woman had told Kavanagh she was pregnant. 

On the date in question the defendant accused her of stealing his beer and in a fit of anger he kicked their 11 week old puppy so hard the dog was sick.

Kavanagh then told the injured party to leave or he would kill her before threatening her with a pair of scissors. 

The defendant was then said to have calmed down and hugged the victim before dragging her across the room.

He then kicked her in the stomach and said he would kill the baby before he would let her hold it.

When the victim's mother was taking her to hospital Kavanagh got into the vehicle and grabbed herby the throat while punching her in the face.

When she was getting out of the vehicle he told her if she contacted police he would burn her out.

Police were called and Kavanagh arrested.

Judge Rafferty said that it was 'an appalling assault on the young woman' and a 'brutal and repugnant' attack on defenceless animal.