Fleetwood man behind bars for controlling and coercive behaviour that left victim 'question her very core'
“I no longer trusted my own thoughts and feelings.”
A man is behind bars after he caused his victim to ‘question the very core of herself’ through a wrath of verbal and physical abuse.
Burnley Crown Court sentenced Adam Underdown, of North Church Street in Fleetwood, to three years imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour.
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The court heard that Underdown, 34, verbally abused and assaulted the victim, limited her contact with family and friends, and pressured her to stop using social media.
Underdown, 34, would also constantly call her to check where she was, what she was doing and what she was wearing, make comments about her clothing and left her feeling humiliated.
During an argument with the victim, Underdown spat in her face and grabbed her throat before throwing her and causing her to hit her head.
He then grabbed her hair and pulled her back before slamming a door onto her foot at least 10 times.
When he was arrested and interviewed he denied ever controlling or coercing the victim but eventually pleaded guilty.
In a statement to the court, the victim said: “The control was relentless and made me question the very core of me, and I no longer trusted my own thoughts and feelings.”
Det Con Beth Marler of Blackpool CID said: “The victim has showed immense bravery by coming forward and speaking out against Underdown, and I urge anybody in a similar situation to always report this behaviour, as nobody should live in fear.
“This conviction sends a clear message: Lancashire Police will not tolerate this behaviour, and we will do everything possible to protect victims and bring offenders to justice.”