Man jailed for strangling woman at West End show

Malcolm Potier, 75, has been jailed for two years after strangling a woman during a performance of 'We Will Rock You' in the West End. The assault took place at the London Coliseum in June 2023 following a disagreement in the audience.

The Theatre Incident

The court heard that Potier's partner, Lizzie Loveridge, had asked the victim, Kirsty O'Donnell, to be quiet as she was singing along to the musical. Ms O'Donnell responded by saying 'That’s a bit rude'. Potier then leaned over and placed his hands on Ms O'Donnell's neck, applying pressure for an estimated three to five seconds. Ms O'Donnell reported feeling shock and fear following the attack. She later identified Ms Loveridge, which led to police arresting Potier in November 2023. Potier initially denied responsibility for the attack but was convicted of non-fatal strangulation by a jury.

Prior Convictions and Judge's Remarks

Judge Dafna Spiro highlighted the attack as a 'wholly disproportionate response to a trivial disagreement' that occurred in a crowded public theatre. She noted a 'common thread of dominance, control, and lack of accountability' in Potier's past convictions and the recent assault. Potier has a prior conviction in Australia for plotting to murder his ex-partner and her new boyfriend. He was jailed in Australia in 2000 for these offences. He returned to the UK in 2015 and was subject to a Violent Offender Order, which had expired prior to the theatre incident.

In her victim impact statement, Ms O'Donnell stated she lives in fear of Potier and that he knows her identity. She added that she decided to cooperate with the case to send a message that violence against women is not acceptable and that victims should not be afraid to report offenders.

Next Steps

Judge Spiro imposed a restraining order banning Potier from contacting Ms O'Donnell or visiting her home. The two-year prison sentence will be served by Potier.