A man has been sentenced to more than ten years in prison for attempting to kill his girlfriend after she discovered his communication with other women. Michael Cosgrove, aged 46, choked his partner twice following a New Order concert in Manchester last year. He threatened her with death before leaving her unconscious and injured. Cosgrove denied the attempted murder charge but was convicted at Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court.
The couple had been arguing over Cosgrove’s interactions on a dating app leading up to the concert. Despite appearing to have a good time at the event, the situation escalated when they returned home, with the victim expressing a desire to end the relationship. This prompted Cosgrove to turn violent, pushing and strangling her on the bed.
The victim, struggling to breathe, tried to defend herself but was overpowered by Cosgrove’s repeated attacks. The intense struggle attracted the attention of a neighbor, who called the police. Evidence presented in court showcased the extent of the victim’s injuries, including bruising, a fractured rib, and burst blood vessels in her eye.
Following his arrest, Cosgrove, previously of Wythenshawe, Manchester, exhibited signs of remorse and mental health struggles. However, during sentencing, the judge noted his lack of genuine remorse and failure to acknowledge his domestic abuse actions. Cosgrove was sentenced to 20 years in prison, with a two-thirds term to be served behind bars and the remainder on license, along with a restraining order against his former partner.
Detective Constable Chris Payne of Greater Manchester Police commended the victim for her bravery and cooperation throughout the investigation, emphasizing the importance of her role in bringing Cosgrove to justice. Payne expressed hope that the verdict would aid in the victim’s healing process and provide closure for the traumatic ordeal she endured.