A survivor of domestic violence has pleaded with others in her situation to come forward
A survivor of domestic violence has pleaded with others who find themselves in controlling and abusive relationships to "take the first step."
At her ex-boyfriend’s sentence hearing today, the court heard how grateful she was for all the support she received after a doctor raised the alarm about her situation.
Two months ago, the woman’s ex-boyfriend became the first person to be convicted of coercive control.
He was also found guilty of intimidation and multiple assault charges.
Following the trial, he admitted trying to convince her to withdraw her statements.
Recordings of phone calls he made to her from prison were played in court today.
In her Victim Impact Statement, she described how he 'sucked the life and soul and confidence' from her body.
Despite the level of violence he inflicted on her, she said she kept going back to him because he kept telling her it wouldn’t happen again.
She thanked the doctor who raised the alarm on her behalf and encouraged other victims of domestic violence to come forward by saying they will be heard.
'You will be supported,' she said. 'Please make the first step. Don’t leave it too late.'
Her ex-boyfriend will be sentenced next week.
***HELPLINE: If you are the victim of domestic abuse, please call Women’s Aid 24hr Freephone Helpline on 1800 341 900 or dial 999 if it’s an emergency situation***
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