A man was sentenced to 18 months in prison after being found guilty of engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour and stalking his former partner. Dorian Williams, a MoT inspector, embarked on a “sinister campaign” of stalking when his relationship ended with his partner. The court heard that Williams isolated and controlled his partner during their relationship, making negative comments about her family and friends and preventing her from seeing them. He would also take her phone and car keys to control her access to the outside world.
Prosecutors revealed that Williams would become jealous if his partner spent time with anyone other than him. When the woman decided to spend Christmas with her family, Williams sent abusive text messages and emotionally blackmailed her. Williams even assaulted his partner on multiple occasions, further demonstrating his abusive behaviour. Despite being arrested and released on bail, he continued to stalk his victim, bombarding her with calls, emails, and social media messages.
The court heard that Williams would turn up at his ex-partner’s place of work, drive past her house revving the car engine, and post messages about her on Facebook. His actions caused significant distress to his victim, leading to her mental health deteriorating. In a statement read in court, the complainant expressed how the emotional blackmail had deeply affected her, causing her to struggle with her identity post-relationship.
During the sentencing, Williams’ barrister described him as “quite meek and timid,” emphasizing his guilty pleas as his best mitigation. However, the judge condemned Williams for his behaviour, stating that he had engaged in emotional blackmail of “staggering immaturity”. Despite receiving a one-quarter discount for his guilty plea, Williams was sentenced to 18 months in prison, with the possibility of serving half the sentence before being released on licence.
As part of his sentencing, Williams was also given a five-year restraining order preventing him from contacting his former partner. The case serves as a reminder of the damaging impact of coercive and controlling behaviour, highlighting the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. If you, or someone you know, is experiencing domestic abuse or harassment, there are helplines and support services available to provide assistance and guidance in navigating difficult situations.
This case sheds light on the prevalence of domestic abuse and the lasting effects it can have on survivors. It is essential to raise awareness of such behaviour and ensure that individuals feel empowered to seek help and speak out against abuse. The legal consequences faced by Williams send a strong message that coercive and controlling behaviour will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions.