A VIOLENT brute who confronted his ex with kitchen knives as she held her baby daughter has been locked up after a cat camera helped snare him.
Michael Salmon, 50, of , was put behind bars for three years and two months at Crown on November 6.
He was convicted of controlling and coercive behaviour against his former partner.
Salmon’s offending escalated over a number of years, which left the victim feeling isolated, intimidated and living in fear, cops said.
His controlling behaviour consisted of monitoring her movements, repeatedly questioning where she was and demanding video calls to verify where she was and who she was with.
After the birth of their daughter, Salmon’s behaviour became increasingly possessive and aggressive.
As the progressed, the victim disclosed a number of incidents where she had been physically assaulted and subjected to threats and intimidation.
The terrifying situation came to a head on September 28, 2024, when Salmon became aggressive during a family journey and began driving erratically while the victim and their young daughter were in the vehicle.
As tensions rose, he threatened to drive the car into a wall, killing everyone inside.
Later the same say, after an argument at home, Salmon armed himself with two kitchen knives and confronted the victim while she was holding their five-month-old daughter.
He pointed the knives towards her and yelled: “She is the only one saving you now.”
The next day, September 29, the victim reported the abuse to the police which led to Salmon being arrested and later charged.
Throughout his police interview he denied the allegations but detectives were able to unearth compelling evidence that contradicted his claims.
A household cat camera, installed above a cat feeding area and intended to monitor the family’s cat while they were away from the property, captured crucial footage.
Domestic abuse - how to get help
DOMESTIC abuse can affect anyone - including men - and does not always involve physical violence.
Here are some signs that you could be in an abusive relationship:
- Emotional abuse – Including being belittled, blamed for the abuse – gaslighting – being isolated from family and friends, having no control over your finances, what you where and who you speak to
- Threats and intimidation – Some partners might threaten to kill or hurt you, destroy your belongings, stalk or harass you
- Physical abuse – This can range from slapping or hitting to being shoved over, choked or bitten.
- Sexual abuse – Being touched in a way you do not want to be touched, hurt during sex, pressured into sex or forced to have sex when you do not consent.
If any of the above apply to you or a friend, you can call these numbers:
- The Freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge on 0808 2000 247 for free at any time, day or night
- Men who are being abused can call Respect Men’s Advice Line on 0808 8010 327 or ManKind on 0182 3334 244
- Those who identify as LGBT+ can ring Galop on 0800 999 5428
- If you are in immediate danger or fear for your life, always ring 999
Remember, you are not alone.
1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience domestic abuse over the course of their lifetime.
Every 30 seconds the police receive a call for help relating to domestic abuse.
The footage showed Salmon holding a knife while standing over the victim, which provided powerful evidence of the threat and supported her side of events.
DC Grindley that led this investigation said: “This conviction reflects a sustained pattern of controlling, coercive and threatening behaviour that left the victim living in fear.
“What began as monitoring, jealousy and attempts to control everyday aspects of her life escalated into violence, intimidation and serious threats involving weapons.
“Crucially, footage captured on a household pet camera, alongside evidence provided by the victim, enabled investigators to demonstrate the reality of what was happening behind closed doors.
“I would like to commend the victim for the immense courage she has shown throughout both the investigation and court process.
“Her bravery in coming forward has ensured a dangerous offender has been brought to justice.
“I hope this outcome reassures victims of that they will be listened to, believed and supported. No one should have to live in fear in their own home or relationship.
“Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, coercive control, threats, or violence is encouraged to report it to Greater Manchester Police via 101, online, or by calling 999 in an emergency.
“Support is also available through specialist domestic abuse services.
“The victim hopes by us sharing this story she can help other people.”
The GMP also pointed out that not all violence against women and girls starts as physical abuse and instances may go unreported as people in controlling relationships often do not recognise the harm they face.
