A man has been found guilty of abusing his ex-girlfriend, both physically and emotionally, at various locations, including their Dublin home.
The man, who can't be named for legal reasons, was convicted of coercive control, intimidation and multiple assault charges following a 21-day trial.
In her evidence, the woman told the court the abuse began early in their relationship. She recalled how he put his cigarette out on her foot for no reason.
While on the phone on another occasion, she said he snatched it off her and smashed it. Another time she said he cut her face with a pizza slicer.
She also outlined horrendous incidents of emotional abuse.
Threats
She said he used to leave her with no money and threatened to drown her. He threatened to kill her whole family too and told her he was willing to do time for her.
If he was drinking, she said the “smallest thing would set him off” and she said it always escalated into violence.
On a “bad day” in 2019, he made her sit naked on the couch while he paced up and down calling her names.
Bravery
This case was the first to go to a jury under new domestic violence laws.
Outside court afterwards, Chief Superintendent Finbarr Murphy praised the woman for coming forward and hoped her bravery would inspire others to do the same.
If you are the victim of domestic abuse, please call Women’s Aid 24 hour Freephone Helpline on 1800 341 900 or dial 999 if it’s an emergency situation.
