[2025] EWCA Crim 1188

THE FACTS

All of these offences were committed against the applicant's former partner, Cheryl Smith. During their relationship the applicant became increasingly controlling. He controlled Ms Smith's use of her mobile telephone and her use of social media. He required her to delete men's contact details. He prevented her from going out and told her what to wear. He was often verbally abusive towards her, calling her "a slag" and a drug addict. He threatened to have her sectioned.

There was violence throughout the relationship. The applicant regularly threatened and punched Ms Smith in the face. In March 2021, Ms Smith ended up on the floor with the applicant standing over her. The applicant punched and kicked her to the ribs. When he refused to take her, Ms Smith managed to get herself to hospital where it was noted that she had very badly bruised ribs. It took around 12 weeks for her to recover from her injuries.

In April 2024 the applicant punched Ms Smith to the ribs and pushed her into a wardrobe. He told her to get out of the house. She spent the night in some local woods before calling her daughter in the morning. Ms Smith's daughter found her curled up in a ball crying hysterically. She had bruising and swelling to the left side of her forehead and to her ribs.

In her victim personal statement, Ms Smith described the profound effect that the applicant's actions have had upon her. She felt worthless and unloved. She described herself as paranoid and scared. She only went out if she had her dog with her and she constantly checked over her shoulder. Her sleep was affected.