Nicole Hollinshead feared for life after date turns violent

In a harrowing incident that has left lasting emotional and physical scars, 26-year-old Nicole Hollinshead has spoken out about a brutal attack by a man she had only recently started dating. The assault occurred at Jordan McMahon’s flat in Brinnington, Stockport, following what was meant to be a casual date on September 29 last year.

Nicole described the early stage of their relationship as the “honeymoon period,” noting that they had only been out a few times. However, the evening took a terrifying turn when McMahon accused her of being unfaithful and then launched a violent and unprovoked attack.

“He completely snapped,” Nicole recalled. “He punched and kicked me repeatedly. I was on the floor, in the foetal position, screaming and begging for him to stop. Then he started strangling me. I genuinely thought I was going to die.”

Covered in blood and fearing for her life, Nicole managed to escape and ran to a neighbor’s house for help. McMahon, 27, was arrested that same night and later charged with grievous bodily harm with intent, non-fatal strangulation, possession of an offensive weapon, and possession of cocaine.

However, in February, McMahon changed his plea to a lesser charge—Section 20 GBH without intent—which was accepted by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). He also admitted to the other charges. On April 11, he was sentenced to 32 months in prison and handed a five-year restraining order.

Nicole, who bravely waived her right to anonymity, expressed disappointment with the outcome. “I don’t feel like justice has truly been served. He is a dangerous man, and I believe he could do this again. The system allowed him to reduce the charges, even though I objected.”

Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, she said, “I was ashamed at first, but now I feel empowered. I’m sharing my story to help others come forward.”

A CPS spokesperson defended the decision, stating it was made “in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors” and that the accepted plea still allowed the court to reflect the gravity of the sustained domestic violence.

“We commend the victim for her courage,” the CPS added. “We recognise the lasting impact of such abuse and have communicated directly with her to explain our decision.”

Nicole now hopes her experience will encourage other survivors of domestic violence to speak up and seek support.