DOMESTIC ABUSER JAILED AFTER LAUNCHING ATTACK ON ANOTHER GIRLFRIEND
At 35 years old, Jake Wheeler was under the influence of alcohol and cocaine when he assaulted a woman by punching her in the face after she tried to escape from her flat window in Royal Wootton Bassett.The conflict arose after the defendant, from The Old Manor in Bradenstoke and suffering from paranoia, accused the victim of infidelity after checking her mobile phone.
Prosecutor Charlotte Evans reported to Swindon Crown Court that police responded to a call about a woman who was injured and distressed, having run to a local shop for help.
When officers arrived early on September 9, the woman, dressed only in a T-shirt and underwear, explained what had transpired and showed her injuries.
Ms Evans detailed that Wheeler struck the woman, breaking her glasses, and threw an unopened cider can at her head, resulting in multiple injuries.
It was also disclosed that Wheeler was serving a suspended sentence from a prior assault case involving a former partner in July 2021, where he pinned her to a sofa, strangled her, and bit her on the face and arm.
The victim was described as very upset and had difficulty breathing during that incident.
Judge Tait told Wheeler, “You’re supposed to behave when you’re on a suspended sentence” Defence lawyer Tom Wilkins explained that Wheeler accepted full responsibility, having completed alcohol and drug awareness courses while detained on remand.
Wilkins further stated Wheeler intends to abstain from alcohol once released and linked his issues to the grief over his brother’s death in 2016, which he has not fully processed.
A letter read aloud in court showed Wheeler’s remorse, which probation officials were hesitant to fully accept.
The judge described Wheeler as a “danger to women” and sentenced him to 21 months’ imprisonment, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the public, especially women.
A five-year restraining order was also issued, barring Wheeler from visiting the High Street in Royal Wootton Bassett, contacting the victim, or discussing her online.
In addressing the victim directly, Judge Tait warned Wheeler, “If he breaches [the restraining order], his feet won’t touch the ground – he’ll be back in prison”.
He also expressed his regret to Wheeler’s parents, who attended the court hearing in his support, by saying, “I’m sorry he’s let you down”.
