Man given community order for history of assault and abuse

Rohitash Kapoor, 36, of no fixed abode, was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court on Thursday last week after pleading guilty to three counts of common assault and one count of harassment with the intent to cause unlawful violence. 

Kapoor was arrested on 6 April, 2017 following an incident where he had slapped his victim in the back of the head. The court heard there was no clear reason as to why. 

This led to arguments with a third party in which Kapoor pushed a second victim in the chest forcing them out of a house before returning to punch the first victim again. 

The court heard how Kapoor had an extensive history of abusive behaviour in the past year, in some instances sexual incidents where his victim had not fully consented but rather “gave in” to the 36-year-old. 

Prosecuting Adam Norris said: “Following the argument with the complainant there was a second incident whereby Mr Kapoor grabbed [them] by the hair and ripped a clump out.”
The court heard how Kapoor had shattered his victim’s confidence and that they just “submitted to his will.” 

Mr Norris told the court that the victim felt that they were “being watched” by Kapoor and that he could “explode at the drop of a hat”. 
Defending Kapoor, Russell Pine said that the 36-year-old knew what he had done was “totally wrong”. 

Mr Pine added: “He knows there is no excuse for what he [has] done.” 
In sentencing, Judge Keith Cutler CBE said Kapoor had shown that he knew what he had done could have profound consequences for his victim.

Judge Cutler said: “I’m pleased that you express sincere regret and you do not minimise your behaviour.” 

Kapoor was sentenced to a 24-month community order for each count which will run concurrently. 

He will also have to complete 32 sessions of a building better behaviour programme and 15 days of rehabilitation activities. 

A five-year restraining order was also put in place by the court as well as payment of costs.