A MAN branded by a judge as a violent, controlling, manipulative and coercive bully has been jailed for the public’s protection.

Jason Tarr, 40, of Kingway, Ulverston, was given an extended sentence of 12 years for arson, harassment and two counts of assault.

Tarr had pleaded not guilty to all four charges.

He was sentenced at Barrow Crown Court to eight years in prison, and also received another four years on licence.

The charge of arson related to an incident which took place on June 8, where Tarr set fire to the Bargain Brands store, in New Market Street, Ulverston.

The assault charges were in relation to a series of assaults committed against his former partner which took place over the course of five months.

The first happened on January 8 of this year, and the second in May.

In addition to the assaults, the court, presided over by Her Honour Judge Jacqueline Beech heard that Tarr harassed his former partner between June and August of this year.

Detective Constable Sarah McArthur, South Cumbria CID, said: "We are pleased that Tarr has been brought to justice for his crimes.

"Tarr held no regards to the safety of members of the public by setting a building on fire. Fortunately nobody was injured.

"Tarr had a profound negative effect on his ex-partner’s life during their relationship and following their break-up.

"I fully concur with the Judge’s comments that Tarr was a violent, controlling, manipulative, coercive bully and that he is a dangerous offender from whom the public needs protection.

"Anyone who feels they may be a victim of domestic abuse can be reassured that each case will be treated sensitively and professionally."