In a distressing turn of events, a violent abuser, Aaron Matthews, 28, from Tredegar, was found guilty of suffocating his partner after subjecting her to a series of horrific assaults and coercive behaviour during their relationship. The court heard that Matthews had a pattern of abusive behaviour that included putting his fingers inside his partner’s mouth and pulling her like a hook, as well as pushing her into a fish tank and throwing objects at her. The victim was also subjected to verbal abuse, with Matthews calling her derogatory names and making hurtful comments about her family.
The sentencing hearing at Newport Crown Court revealed the extent of the abuse the victim endured at the hands of Matthews. Prosecutor Julia Cox highlighted how the victim felt conditioned to believe that the abusive behaviour was normal in their day-to-day life. Matthews would physically assault her during verbal arguments, pushing her into objects, pulling her hair, and inflicting bodily harm. Despite his violent actions, Matthews would then manipulate the situation by crying, apologising, and making false promises to change his behaviour, only for the abuse to continue.
One particularly alarming incident described in court involved Matthews holding his hand over the victim’s nose and mouth until she feared losing consciousness. On another occasion, he caused a severe injury by grabbing her hair and ear, resulting in a split ear. The abusive behaviour also extended to controlling actions such as going through the victim’s phone and making sarcastic comments about her family members. The culmination of the abuse occurred when Matthews physically attacked the victim after a night of drinking, leading to him suffocating her and causing significant injuries.
Matthews pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including controlling and coercive behaviour, intentional suffocation, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and criminal damage. The court heard that he was on bail at the time of the offences for a previous battery offence. The victim’s impact statement revealed the deep emotional and psychological trauma she experienced as a result of the abuse, expressing feelings of guilt, anxiety, and a loss of identity. She described how her life had been completely altered, leaving her feeling depressed and dependent on her abuser.
Recorder Robin Rouch sentenced Matthews to 32 months in prison and imposed a restraining order lasting 11 years. The severity of the sentence reflects the gravity of the abuse inflicted by Matthews on his partner. The court also highlighted the support available for survivors of domestic abuse, urging anyone affected to seek help from resources such as the Live Fear Free helpline and Refuge charity. These organisations provide crucial assistance and guidance to those experiencing domestic violence, offering a lifeline to individuals in need of support.
The case of Aaron Matthews serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of domestic abuse and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. The bravery of the victim in coming forward and seeking justice demonstrates the resilience and courage it takes to break free from an abusive situation. Ultimately, the hope is that through increased awareness and support, survivors of domestic abuse can find the strength to seek help and rebuild their lives free from violence and coercion.