A police officer has denied the accusation of kicking his wife down the stairs and causing her to sustain a broken back. Huw Orphan, who was a constable with Gwent Police at the time of the incident, claimed that he did not intend to make contact with his partner or harm her. During his trial at Cardiff Crown Court, Orphan stated that he was only trying to create distance between himself and his wife by “jumping” up the stairs during a heated argument.
Orphan testified that his relationship with fellow officer Amy Burley began positively but deteriorated over time, especially when they moved to a new house in Barry in February 2020. Describing the events of the night in question, Orphan recounted that his wife appeared angry and threw a child seat towards him. As he attempted to retreat up the stairs, his wife followed, which led to a physical altercation resulting in her falling down the stairs.
During cross-examination, Orphan denied the prosecution’s claims that he intentionally kicked his wife or falsely created a story to cover up his actions. The trial continues with Orphan, aged 31, pleading not guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm and inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent.
Furthermore, the court heard about a previous incident in January 2020 where Orphan was accused of assaulting his partner following an argument about sterilising baby bottles. Orphan asserted that he acted to neutralise any risk to himself, his wife, and their children, denying any deliberate harm.
The narrative presented in court underscores the complex dynamics of the relationship between Orphan and his wife, offering a glimpse into the events leading up to the alleged assault. The trial delves into the details of the couple’s interactions and the subsequent consequences, shedding light on a case that carries significant legal and personal implications.