A man has been handed a lengthy prison sentence for attempting to murder his girlfriend following a dispute over his communication with other women. Michael Cosgrove, aged 46, was found guilty of strangling his partner on two occasions after a New Order concert in Manchester last year. The victim was threatened with death before being left unconscious and injured when Cosgrove leaped from a window upon police intervention.
During the trial at Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court, Cosgrove denied the charge of attempted murder but was ultimately convicted. The prosecution revealed that the couple had been arguing due to Cosgrove’s messaging behavior on a dating app. Despite appearing amicable at the concert they attended, the situation turned violent upon their return home.
Cosgrove reacted aggressively when the victim expressed her desire to end the relationship, leading to him forcefully strangling her. The woman struggled for breath and attempted to defend herself as Cosgrove threatened their lives. She resorted to desperate measures to escape the assault, including trying to jump out of a window.
Neighbors alerted the authorities due to the disturbance, and recordings of the incident served as crucial evidence. The victim sustained various injuries, including visible bruising and a fractured rib, indicative of the severity of the attack. Following his arrest, Cosgrove, who had no prior criminal record, displayed signs of mental health struggles.
Despite claims of remorse from his defense team, the judge noted Cosgrove’s lack of genuine regret and failure to recognize his actions as domestic abuse. The victim’s emotional and physical trauma was highlighted during the sentencing, emphasizing the lasting impact on her well-being. Cosgrove received a 20-year prison term, with two-thirds to be served in custody and the remainder under supervision, along with a restraining order.
Detective Constable Chris Payne of Greater Manchester Police commended the victim for her courage throughout the investigation, underscoring her pivotal role in ensuring justice for the abuse she endured. He expressed hope that the verdict would provide a sense of closure and justice for the victim, acknowledging the distressing ordeal she faced.