Domestic Violence: Man Sentenced to Prison for Brutal Attack on Girlfriend
In a harrowing incident at Gulliver’s World Hotel, a 27-year-old man named Thomas Francis unleashed a brutal attack on his then-girlfriend, leaving her traumatized and injured. The disturbing assault involved Francis strangling his partner not once, but twice, while also repeatedly bashing her head against a wardrobe and bedpost.
Incident Details and Legal Proceedings
The attack, which took place on October 24th, shook the community as it unfolded in a hotel room where children were present. Francis, who had been under the influence of alcohol, displayed violent behavior towards his partner when she attempted to get him out of bed after a night of drinking. His actions escalated quickly, leading to a vicious assault that left the victim in a state of shock and physical pain.
During the sentencing at Liverpool Crown Court, Francis tearfully listened to the charges brought against him, including intentional strangulation and assault causing actual bodily harm. The prosecutor, Shannon Stewart, described the horrific sequence of events that transpired that fateful night, shedding light on the trauma endured by the victim.
Impact on the Victim
The victim’s impact statement revealed the profound effects of the assault on her mental and physical well-being. Suffering from severe anxiety and sleepless nights, she expressed concerns about the lasting impact on her children and her own identity. The emotional toll of the attack was evident as she shared how the incident had changed her forever, stripping away her once vibrant personality and leaving her in a state of constant fear and unease.
Defense and Sentencing
Despite the gravity of his actions, Francis’s defense attorney, Paul Wood, offered a glimpse into his client’s remorse and regret for the brutal assault. Acknowledging Francis’s troubled past and struggles with alcohol, Wood painted a picture of a man who deeply regretted his actions and sought redemption for his behavior.
In the end, Judge Sarah O’Brien handed down a sentence of three years and nine months in prison for Francis, along with a restraining order to protect the victim from any future contact. The courtroom atmosphere was heavy with emotion as the consequences of domestic violence were laid bare for all to see, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and prevention in our communities.