Mario Garino, a 60-year-old convicted criminal, was arrested in Weston-super-Mare on August 11, 2025, following a brutal attack on his former partner in Bootle, Liverpool. The horrific assault, which took place in November 2024 but was reported only months later, involved Garino strangling the woman with his foot and throwing a bicycle at her while their four-year-old daughter pleaded for him to stop.
Liverpool Crown Court heard that Garino, an Albanian national with a history of violence and weapon offences dating back to 1997, had a turbulent relationship with the victim that started well in 2019 but deteriorated after she became pregnant in 2020. The couple endured the tragic loss of their second daughter shortly after birth in 2023, after which Garino’s visits became infrequent and abusive.
Prosecutor Tom Challinor described Garino’s pattern of intimidation during visits to Liverpool, where he would claim homelessness and provoke arguments, escalating to violence during the November incident. The victim recalled the terrifying moment when Garino threw her onto a sofa, pinned her neck under his full weight, causing her to nearly lose consciousness, and then hurled a bicycle at her amidst their daughter’s screams.
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The victim expressed relief since separating from Garino, stating that although she still suffers nightmares, she feels freed from fear. Garino, who had denied the offenses initially, pleaded guilty to intentional strangulation and stalking just before his trial, resulting in a three-year prison sentence and a five-year restraining order.
Recorder Nicholas Flanagan condemned Garino’s pattern of violence and poor history, emphasizing the lasting trauma inflicted on both mother and child. He noted little hope for Garino’s rehabilitation given his repeated violent behavior and disregard for the victim’s wellbeing.