A controlling boyfriend has been sentenced to prison for threatening to stab his partner and “bounce her head off the kerb.” Ashley Edwards, 21, from Llanelli, was described by a judge as having “the capacity to kill” as he was sent to prison. The court heard that on June 3 this year, Edwards argued with his partner and threatened her with a knife at her home. Despite her objections, he forced his way into her house, physically abused her, and made menacing threats towards her.
During a sentencing hearing at Swansea Crown Court, Edwards pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including controlling or coercive behaviour, threatening criminal damage, making threats to kill, and blackmail. The court was told that the victim feared for her life and felt trapped and isolated in the relationship. Edwards was also found to have breached a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) that was put in place in 2021.
Prosecution barrister Tom Scapens detailed how Edwards controlled his victim by checking her phone, restricting her interactions with friends, and subjecting her to physical and verbal abuse. The victim described feeling worthless and suffering from mental health issues as a result of the ordeal. In his defence, Edwards’ barrister Ian Ibrahim cited his client’s troubled childhood, which included abandonment by his mother, his father’s alcoholism, and a diagnosis of ADHD at a young age.
The judge, His Honour Judge Geraint Walters, referred to Edwards as someone who had demonstrated the capacity for extreme violence. Judge Walters highlighted Edwards’ controlling behaviour and lack of regard for the law. Edwards was sentenced to a total of four years in prison, with half to be served in custody and the remainder on licence.
The court emphasised the seriousness of domestic violence and encouraged individuals affected by such abuse to seek help from support services. Resources for those impacted by domestic violence were provided, including helplines and support programmes. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of recognising and addressing controlling behaviours in relationships to prevent further harm and protect victims.