HUW ORPHAN FROM BARRY SENTENCED FOR BRUTAL ASSAULT ON WIFE IN CARDIFF

A man named Huw Orphan, aged 32, originally from Barry, has been handed a prison sentence after a violent incident that left his wife with serious injuries. The incident, which took place in 2020, involved Orphan causing grievous bodily harm to his wife by kicking her down the stairs, resulting in a broken back. This assault has had long-lasting repercussions for the victim, Amy Burley, who has spoken out about her ongoing suffering.

Huw Orphan, who previously served as a police constable with Gwent Police, was convicted at Cardiff Crown Court of causing the severe injury. During the trial, Orphan maintained that he did not intentionally harm his wife. Instead, he claimed that during a heated argument, he accidentally caught her with his leg, which led to her falling down the stairs. Despite his denial of intent, the court found him guilty of causing grievous bodily harm and actual bodily harm. However, he was acquitted of causing the injuries with malicious intent.

In a recent misconduct hearing, Gwent Police confirmed that Orphan would have been dismissed from the force had he not resigned prior to the proceedings. As a result, he was barred from rejoining any police force, marking a significant professional consequence following the incident.

Mrs. Burley, in an emotional impact statement, detailed the profound effects her injury has had on her life. She described experiencing persistent pain, difficulties with mobility, trouble sleeping, and an inability to participate in activities with her children. She also revealed that she has been on sick leave and unpaid leave, which has placed a financial strain on her family. Her physical and emotional well-being continues to be affected more than four years after the assault.

The court proceedings also shed light on the couple’s relationship. Orphan and Burley, who married in 2019 after meeting in 2017 while working for Gwent Police, were known to have frequent arguments. On the night of the assault, they had been texting during a disagreement, which escalated into the violent incident. Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke emphasized the gravity of the injury sustained by Mrs. Burley, noting that she remains significantly impacted by the incident even years later.

It was also noted that Orphan had no prior criminal convictions and was described as a dedicated father involved in voluntary work. He is currently awaiting a hearing scheduled for 29 November, where a restraining order will be considered to prevent further contact with his wife.