Woman 'feels free' after abusive ex-partner jailed

A woman who escaped a controlling and abusive relationship said she had begun rebuilding her life after her attacker was jailed.

Shakori Bull, 23, of Assart Way, Chippenham has been sentenced to 29 months in prison.

He was found guilty of engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour in an intimate relationship, intentional strangulation and assault causing actual bodily harm.

Additionally, a 10-year restraining order against the victim was imposed during his sentencing at Winchester Crown Court.

The court heard Bull frequently subjected his victim to physical harm throughout their relationship.

He would also often demand hundreds of pounds from the victim so he could buy drugs.

In a statement read to the court, the victim said: "The way Bull treated me, stripped me down to be able to be moulded into the person he could intimidate, control and abuse will never leave me.

"Since leaving the relationship, I have been happier, feeling like I am free. I don't have to give explanations to anyone about where I am going or what I am doing."

PC Emily Marsh from Wiltshire Police said: "Protecting victims of this sort of crime is our utmost priority and we are dedicated to holding perpetrators accountable for their actions."

"I would like to commend the victim for her unwavering bravery throughout the investigation," she added.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, help is available at BBC Action Line.

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