MAN JAILED AFTER REPEATEDLY PUNCHING EX-PARTNER
Daniel William Hughes, aged 24, physically assaulted his former girlfriend by punching her multiple times while she was on the ground, after knocking her down with a punch to the face.The incident was reported to have taken place a few weeks after Hughes received a suspended sentence for charges including dangerous driving, driving under the influence of alcohol, and failing to stop after a collision near a McDonald's in Newtown.
The assault occurred early on Sunday morning, June 13, and lasted approximately two minutes.
Hughes ceased the attack and fled when a neighbour emerged to investigate.
Prosecutor Myles Wilson explained that Hughes had pressured the victim, who had ended their relationship a week prior, to visit his house in Newtown following an outing with friends.
He described how Hughes tracked her using Snapchat and threatened to take his own life if she did not comply.
Upon her arrival, Hughes begged her to stay overnight, but she declined.
He then took her bag and mobile phone before striking her in the face, causing her to fall.
Mr Wilson detailed that Hughes then struck her four or five more times in the face either by kicking or punching, though she was unsure of the exact method.
Each time she attempted to get up, he pushed her down again.
The attack lasted a couple of minutes before a neighbour intervened, prompting Hughes to stop and run away.
The victim was hospitalised overnight due to a suspected broken nose and facial swelling.
In court, her victim impact statement revealed feelings of isolation and confusion since the assault, and she avoided leaving her home due to her injuries.
It was also mentioned that she had previously excused Hughes' behaviour, but this was the most severe incident she had experienced.
She expressed increased anxiety and regret over the assault.
Defence lawyer Dafydd Roberts highlighted Hughes’ good work ethic and expressed his hope that Hughes would use his prison time to resolve personal issues.
He acknowledged that Hughes had previously been given a chance in April but failed to improve.
Judge Niclas Parry, sentencing Hughes who was remanded at HMP Berwyn characterised the harm as 'most serious.' He emphasised that the case involved control, manipulation, and domestic violence, with Hughes abusing his partner out of spite.
The judge pointed out the extensive injuries inflicted, the long-term effects on the victim, and the disruption to her life as reasons for a stern sentence.
Hughes was sentenced to 15 months in prison for assault and actual bodily harm, along with an additional nine months for dangerous driving, to be served consecutively for a total of two years.
A five-year restraining order was imposed, preventing him from directly or indirectly contacting his ex-partner or discussing her on social media.
