A man in Wales was found guilty of forcing his girlfriend to overeat in an abusive relationship. The court heard that Aaron Edwards, a 21-year-old from Tredegar, would make his girlfriend eat to “fatten her up” so that no one else would want her. Edwards, who was reportedly intoxicated during the relationship and started smoking cannabis at the age of seven, displayed abusive behaviour towards his girlfriend, affecting her self-esteem. The relationship involved physical abuse, with Edwards verbally aggressive, punching, kicking, spitting, and breaking things during arguments.
At a sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, the victim detailed the impact of the abuse, stating that she felt trapped, unsafe, and had her confidence shattered. She described how Edwards controlled her food intake, forcing her to eat to avoid his aggression. The victim expressed ongoing emotional trauma and nightmares as a result of the abuse.
Following the end of the relationship in 2021, which culminated in the discovery that Edwards had harmed the victim’s cat, police arrested him. Edwards pleaded guilty to charges of controlling and coercive behaviour and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. In court, the victim shared a harrowing victim personal statement, recounting the lasting psychological and physical effects of the abuse she endured.
In mitigation, Edwards’ lawyer highlighted his client’s efforts to make positive changes in his life, including becoming a father and undergoing drug tests to prove he is clean. The court considered Edwards’ troubled childhood, exposure to abuse, and early drug use in their sentencing decision. Recorder Celia Hughes sentenced Edwards to 21 months’ imprisonment suspended for 18 months, with additional requirements for rehabilitation and a restraining order.
The case serves as a chilling reminder of the lasting impact of domestic abuse on victims. Women’s Aid offers guidance for those experiencing abuse, including keeping a phone nearby, seeking help from support services, and familiarising oneself with reporting options like the Silent Solution. SupportLine and the National Domestic Abuse Helpline provide essential resources for individuals facing domestic abuse situations, offering support and guidance to ensure safety and wellbeing.
The case underscores the importance of recognising and addressing coercive and controlling behaviours in relationships to prevent further harm and protect victims from enduring lasting trauma. It also serves as a call to action for communities to support those affected by domestic abuse and work towards ending abuse in all its forms.