A police officer has been banned from police work after being found guilty of kicking his wife down a flight of stairs, causing her to break her back. PC Huw Orphan was convicted of grievous bodily harm (GBH) against his wife Amy Burley by a Cardiff Crown Court jury. Gwent Police’s temporary assistant chief constable Nick McLain stated that if Orphan had not resigned before his misconduct hearing, he would have been dismissed without notice.
The incident occurred in April 2020 when Orphan, of Church Road in Barry, was involved in an argument with his wife. During the trial, Orphan claimed that he was attempting to move away from his wife by “jumping” up the stairs when his leg accidentally came into contact with her. The prosecution contested Orphan’s version of events, alleging that he deliberately kicked his wife in a fit of rage, causing her to fall and break her back.
In addition to the GBH charge, Orphan was also found guilty of causing actual bodily harm (ABH) in a previous incident before the couple moved to Barry. This incident involved Orphan grabbing his partner and taking her to the floor following a dispute over sterilising baby bottles. Orphan defended his actions, stating that he did so to protect himself, his wife, and their children.
Orphan and Mrs Burley’s relationship began in 2018, and they got married before moving to Barry in 2020. The situation escalated on the night of April 8, 2020, following a series of arguments between the couple about various topics. Orphan admitted during the trial that he could have done more to defuse the argument.
At a misconduct hearing in Cwmbran, Orphan was found guilty of gross misconduct. Gwent Police’s temporary chief constable Mark Hobrough condemned Orphan’s actions as “appalling” and “disgusting,” expressing his sympathy for Mrs Burley. Hobrough emphasised the force’s commitment to holding offenders accountable and protecting victims from abuse.
Orphan is set to be sentenced for his crimes on October 25. For individuals affected by domestic abuse or sexual violence, the Live Fear Free Helpline offers free advice and support 24/7. The incidents involving Orphan highlight the severity of domestic violence and the importance of awareness and intervention to prevent such occurrences in the future.
The case has sparked outrage and reiterates the need for accountability and justice in cases of domestic abuse. The actions of PC Huw Orphan have not only tarnished his own reputation but have also betrayed the trust of the public and his colleagues in the police force. As the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of victims and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.