A woman was left feeling worthless after being assaulted three times by her partner in just over a fortnight.
Declan Wilson (19), of Friars Road, Penrith, was sentenced at Carlisle Crown Court on Monday for criminal offending which occurred in the early summer of 2022. During the first incident, on 15th June that year, Wilson initially pushed his partner to the ground before leaving her property. He returned later that day, kicking down a barricade she had erected and, as she prepared a baby bottle he pushed a kettle, causing hot water to go on her hand.
Upstairs he pushed her on to a bed, causing a curtain pole to fall and hit her on the back. He punched her a number of times before pushing her head and then shoving her through a stair gate.
“A neighbour then attempted to enter the property and (the victim) shouted out saying that the defendant is going to kill her one day,” said the prosecutor.
Wilson grabbed the woman, pulled off her nightie and then hit her again, causing bruising to her face.
Three days later, he hit her with a pan numerous times before friends arrived and took her away.
There was then a third assault, on 1st July, 2022, while the woman was at home. Wilson jumped across a couch and grabbed the woman.
“He pinned her arm down and told her to shut up and that he did not want the neighbours to phone the police,” said the prosecutor.
In an impact statement, the woman spoke of suffering flashbacks and nightmares, of being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and feeling both worthless and less confident.
“I still feel very much alone,” the woman had stated with reference to strained links with friends. “My relationship with Declan was the worst year-and-a-half of my life.”
Wilson admitted two assaults, both causing actual bodily harm, and one of assault by beating.
The judge, Recorder Julian Shaw, also heard details of the immense adversity Wilson had encountered during an “appalling childhood”. He was deemed not yet a functioning adult, had complex difficulties and a low IQ. Latterly, however, he was starting to reflect on his past.
Having read a detailed background report and from a care leader who had written “insightfully and powerfully” about the teen, Recorder Shaw imposed a two-year community order. This includes completion of mental health treatment and building better relationships courses, along with a rehabilitation requirement.
Wilson was banned from contacting his ex-partner for 10 years. “Don’t attack girlfriends or anyone else, or you will go to jail,” Recorder Shaw warned him.
