An abusive man punched and strangled his partner after she told him they couldn’t get a dog. Andrew Symons, 33, from Cardiff, physically attacked his partner after verbally abusing her, causing her to fear for her life during the assault. The incident occurred in May when Symons woke the victim at 1 am to discuss buying a dog. When she explained they couldn’t due to their circumstances, he became enraged, punching her in the face and verbally abusing her.
Symons proceeded to grab the victim by the throat and pin her against a door, leading her to believe he might kill her. The victim sustained various injuries from the assault, including bruises and soreness. In a victim personal statement, she described the trauma and ongoing impact on her mental health, including anxiety and nightmares. Symons pleaded guilty to intentional strangulation and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
During the sentencing at Cardiff Crown Court, it was revealed that Symons had a history of alcohol abuse, drug use from a young age, and struggles with his sexuality. The judge noted his lack of remorse and empathy for the victim and sentenced him to 15 months in prison, along with a restraining order for five years. The victim highlighted the lasting effects of the assault on her well-being, emphasizing the need for support for survivors of domestic abuse.
For individuals affected by domestic abuse or seeking assistance, helplines such as Live Fear Free provide free advice and support 24/7. Additionally, the Refuge charity offers services to women experiencing domestic violence, including refuge referrals. These resources aim to empower survivors and provide them with essential support during challenging times. It is crucial to raise awareness of domestic abuse issues and ensure that survivors receive the necessary assistance and protection.