Thug sentenced for assaulting girlfriend with rum bottle
Craig Gillatt, 32, was found guilty of strangling his girlfriend and hitting her over the head with a bottle of Captain Morgan rum. The victim described the attack as merciless, fearing for her life during the violent outburst. Gillatt’s assault on his then-partner took place in Cardiff on August 14, a night that left the victim traumatised.
During a sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, details of the incident emerged. Gillatt, along with a friend, had sought shelter at the victim’s home after choosing not to stay at a homeless shelter. Intoxicated and aggressive, Gillatt unleashed a barrage of violence towards his partner, culminating in the physical assault with the rum bottle.
The situation escalated as Gillatt accused the victim of being involved with his friend. He resorted to damaging property, including throwing the rum bottle and a ladder, as well as physically attacking the victim by grabbing her throat. Following the assault, Gillatt called the police himself to report his actions.
In a statement read in court, the victim expressed her ongoing trauma and fear following the attack. She described feeling constant worry, confusion, and a loss of trust in a person she once allowed into her life. Despite the violence inflicted upon her, she hoped for Gillatt to find inner peace and cease preying on vulnerable women in the future.
Gillatt, residing on Cowbridge Road East, pleaded guilty to charges of intentional strangulation and criminal damage. Additionally, he faces charges related to possession with intent to supply Class A drugs. His defence highlighted Gillatt’s difficult upbringing marred by substance abuse and domestic violence, providing context to his actions.
Recorder Greg Bull KC sentenced Gillatt to 43 months’ imprisonment, with a requirement to serve half of the term in custody before release on licence. The case serves as a reminder of the pervasive issue of domestic abuse and the lasting impact it has on survivors. Helplines like Live Fear Free offer support and guidance to those affected by such violence, emphasizing the importance of seeking help in such situations.