A man has been described as a “sadistic bully” after telling his partner he could kill her and her daughters in just four-and-a-half minutes. Vincent Brownson, 46, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for his abusive behaviour towards his partner, which included threats of violence and physical assaults.
During a hearing at Swansea Crown Court, it was revealed that Brownson had subjected his partner to a pattern of abuse, both physically and emotionally, throughout their relationship. The court heard how he would control every aspect of their lives, particularly when it came to his alcohol dependency.
The prosecutor highlighted instances where Brownson had been violent towards his partner, including throwing a shoe at her, kicking her in the ribs, and putting a pillow over her face while punching her. One particularly chilling threat involved him telling his partner that he had calculated it would only take him four-and-a-half minutes to kill her and her daughters, intending to make her suffer before ending her life.
The court also heard how Brownson would belittle and criticise his partner for even the smallest things, such as how she peeled potatoes or made a cup of tea. His controlling behaviour extended to sabotaging family celebrations, managing the finances to prioritise his alcohol consumption, and even preventing her from using her phone by not paying the bill.
In a statement read to the court, Brownson’s former partner described how she felt trapped and controlled during their relationship. She detailed how leaving Brownson seemed daunting at first, but she eventually found the strength to break free. She highlighted the manipulative nature of their relationship, where Brownson would discard her belongings out of spite, yell threats, and physically assault her.
After pleading guilty to assault charges, including intentional strangulation and suffocation, Brownson’s defence attorney cited his difficult background and alcohol dependency as contributing factors to his behaviour. The attorney emphasised that Brownson acknowledged the seriousness of his actions and was willing to engage with probation services to address his issues.
Despite arguments for a suspended sentence due to Brownson’s time spent on remand and efforts to address his behaviour, Judge Geraint Walters deemed immediate custody necessary. Brownson was ultimately sentenced to 30 months in prison and issued a lifelong restraining order prohibiting contact with his ex-partner.
The case was described by the judge as involving “sadistic bullying and terrorising behaviour,” and he emphasised the gravity of domestic violence. This compelling court case sheds light on the impact of abusive relationships and the importance of seeking help and support in such situations.
If you have experienced domestic abuse or violence, you can contact the Live Fear Free helpline for assistance and guidance. It’s crucial to remember that help is available, and you are not alone in facing these challenges.