An abusive man in Wales, Bradley McCoy, 25, of Blackwood, strangled his partner after she discovered a video of him being intimate with another woman. McCoy had a tumultuous relationship with the victim, during which he assaulted her multiple times. The first incident occurred on March 16, when he struck her, resulting in a black eye. In subsequent events, McCoy damaged the victim’s phone and car keys on several occasions.
A sentencing hearing at Newport Crown Court revealed that McCoy strangled his partner on May 3 when she confronted him about the video on his phone. Following a series of confrontations and assaults, McCoy damaged the victim’s iPhone by throwing it against a wall on May 10. The final incident took place on May 21, when McCoy visited the victim’s home multiple times during the early hours of the morning, leading to a violent confrontation.
During this last encounter, McCoy took the victim’s car keys, threw them on the street, and broke them into pieces. He then physically assaulted the victim, culminating in his arrest by the police. McCoy made threatening statements to the police, stating he would harm the victim upon his release.
McCoy pleaded guilty to charges including intentional strangulation, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, battery, and criminal damage. He received a 12-month prison sentence and was also issued a restraining order for five years. McCoy’s defence highlighted his issues with alcohol and substance misuse, acknowledging the toxic nature of the relationship.
In a victim impact statement, the victim expressed the emotional toll of the abuse, detailing feelings of fear, anxiety, and emotional distress. The court’s decision to impose a restraining order aimed to protect the victim and prevent further harm.
For those affected by domestic abuse in Wales, helplines such as Live Fear Free provide confidential support and guidance. Victims can access assistance by calling 0808 80 10 800, texting 0786 007 7333, or emailing info@livefearfreehelpline.wales. Refuge charity also offers help and referrals for women experiencing domestic violence, reachable at 0808 808 9999.
McCoy’s case serves as a reminder of the prevalence of domestic abuse and the importance of seeking help and support in such situations.