Michael Arkeveld: Bunbury man dodges prison after threatening to kill girlfriend in front of their child

A Bunbury man who violently threatened to kill his then-girlfriend in front of their young child has narrowly avoided a prison sentence thanks to family members who vouched for his “good character”. Michael Lee Cornelius Arkeveld, 24, appeared via video link from Bunbury Regional Prison on June 27 where he was sentenced for a string of charges, the most serious of which related to domestic violence. One of the charges was threatening to kill his then-girlfriend, who is also the mother of his young child. Police prosecution told Magistrate Stephen Butcher that Arkeveld had been staying at the woman’s home on the morning of January 8 when they got into a heated argument. In front of their child, Arkeveld told the woman he would kill her, and to “shut up, you dog”. The court was told the man was worried the woman had told his friends he had been abusive towards her. “Why are you talking to my mates,” he said. “If you tell anyone I hurt you, I’ll kill you.” The victim locked herself and their child in the bathroom and called police. The court was told when police arrived, they could still hear Arkeveld yelling abuse, but when he was arrested he told police he “didn’t threaten anyone”. Arkeveld also faced two counts of stealing items including bottles of Jack Daniels, pre-mixed alcohol and cigarettes. Magistrate Butcher said the seriousness of the offending needed to be reflected in the sentencing. “I’ve got to impose a sentence that speaks to the severity of the offending,” he said. “The things you said are made worse by the fact you did them in front of your child. They should have been supported by you, but instead they were afraid of you.” Mr Butcher, however, did note a series of letters which spoke of Arkeveld’s “good character” and support, particularly from his family. The magistrate told the court the level of support Arkeveld was receiving from the community was enough for him to be given a suspended prison sentence, rather than an immediate jail term. Arkeveld was given an eight month prison sentence, which was suspended for 11 months. He was also fined $4400 for the stealing charges and breaching a bail undertaking.