A “sadistic bully” threatened his partner by telling her he could kill her and her daughters in just four-and-a-half minutes, a court in Swansea has heard. Vincent Brownson’s terrifying threats included slitting the girls’ throats before turning the knife on her to make her “suffer.” The court was told that this incident was part of a series of physically and emotionally abusive behaviour inflicted by Brownson during their relationship.
Brownson’s partner described in an impact statement how their lives were controlled by the defendant’s alcohol dependency and abuse. Prosecuting barrister James Hartson highlighted the frequent use of violent behaviour in the relationship, with instances of physical and verbal abuse towards the woman. The court heard of three specific assaults, including kicking her ribs, punching her face while covering it with a pillow, and demonstrating how quickly he could kill her by pulling a tea towel tight around her neck.
The defendant, aged 46, previously pleaded guilty to assault, strangulation, and suffocation. His lawyer detailed Brownson’s difficult background and alcohol issues, expressing remorse for his behaviour. Despite the suggestion of a suspended sentence due to time spent on remand and rehabilitation prospects, Judge Geraint Walters deemed immediate custody necessary, sentencing Brownson to 30 months in prison and imposing a lifelong restraining order.
His ex-partner, in her impact statement, detailed the controlling and manipulative nature of their relationship, where she felt incapable and restricted by Brownson’s actions. She recounted incidents of abuse, threats, and financial control, highlighting the toxic environment she had bravely escaped from. The court recognised the seriousness of the case, pointing out the disturbing pattern of domestic violence exhibited by Brownson.