A St Ippolyts man has been jailed for two-and-a-half years after he attempted to set fire to a former employee.

Jonathon Blaksley, of Stevenage Road, was sentenced at St Albans Crown Court on March 28 after an investigation into his manipulative, controlling and violent behaviour towards his victim.

In April 2016, Blaksley disclosed a private sexual image, without the consent of the person in it, with intent to cause them distress.

More than a year later, in October 2017, he was found in possession of pepper spray.

On April 19 last year, he attempted to set fire to his victim following an argument.

He was arrested later that day and charged with burglary, disclosing private sexual images, possession of a prohibited firearm, possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and attempted GBH.

Blaksley was given a sentence of two years and six months for the offences.

He received 12 months for the GBH offence and 12 months for supplying class A drugs.

Blaksley was also sentenced to three months for both the pepper spray offence and for disclosing images. These sentences are to run consecutively.

An indefinite restraining order has also been issued to protect the victim.

Investigating officer Karen Jordan from the Domestic Abuse Investigation and Safeguarding Unit said: “We are very pleased with this sentence.

“Judge Kay acknowledged that Blaksley had manipulated and controlled his victim during their relationship through the supply of drugs specifically Crystal Meth and GHB.

“It was clear that Blaksley had an agenda of abuse, power and control of the victim. However with the victim’s bravery, courage and support, we were able to bring Blaksley to justice.

“Hertfordshire Constabulary are committed to tackling domestic abuse and have specially trained officers who assist with investigations of this nature and also provide support to victims.

“It is important to remember that domestic abuse does not just happen to women. It can happen to any man, regardless of background or sexual orientation. The abuse can be physical, verbal, emotional or financial, involving isolating you from family and friends or they may threaten you or make false allegations against you.”