Serial abuser tells partner not to look in the mirror after vicious attack
In a disturbing case heard at Swansea Crown Court, Ben James, a known perpetrator of violence against women, subjected his then-partner to a brutal assault, leaving her with severe injuries and in a state of distress. The court was told that James, 35, unleashed a barrage of punches on his partner, causing her nose to bleed profusely and leading to her vomiting. The victim, fearing for her safety, pleaded with James to take her to the hospital, to which he agreed on the condition that she would fabricate a story about how she had sustained her injuries.
Prosecutor Regan Walter detailed the extensive injuries inflicted by James, which included swelling and bruising to the face, damage to the cheekbone, and a collection of blood on the skull. Photos presented in court depicted the woman with a visibly disfigured and swollen face, indicating the severity of the attack. Following a medical examination, the victim was discharged with painkillers, but the psychological trauma persisted as James instructed her not to look in the mirror to avoid confronting the extent of her injuries.
James’ history of violent behaviour towards women was highlighted during the proceedings, with a record of 17 convictions for various offences, including assaults on multiple individuals. Despite his prior run-ins with the law, James continued his pattern of abuse, demonstrating a consistent disregard for the well-being of his victims. The court was informed of an incident where James assaulted a man with a hammer and engaged in other violent altercations, underscoring his dangerous and aggressive tendencies.
The victim’s courage in coming forward months after the attack led to James’ arrest and subsequent admission of guilt to the charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. In a poignant statement read in court, the woman expressed her feelings of shame and broken trust, articulating the profound impact of the traumatic experience on her life. Her words painted a stark picture of the lasting trauma inflicted by James’ actions, illustrating the devastating consequences of domestic abuse.
Upon sentencing, Judge Huw Rees condemned James’s behaviour, highlighting the disparity in physical strength between him and his victim and emphasizing the repetitive nature of his abusive conduct. The judge’s stern rebuke underscored the severity of James’s actions and the need for decisive intervention to protect vulnerable individuals from harm. James was sentenced to three years in prison, with a restraining order imposed to prevent any contact with the victim for a minimum of 10 years.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the prevalence of domestic abuse and the urgent need for societal support mechanisms to assist victims in seeking help and holding perpetrators accountable. The harrowing account of violence and manipulation endured by the victim stands as a testament to the resilience of survivors and the imperative of robust legal measures to address such heinous acts. As communities grapple with the scourge of domestic violence, this case serves as a call to action to promote awareness, provide support, and advocate for justice for all those affected.