MAN ‘CONTROLLED EVERY ASPECT’ OF EX-PARTNER'S LIFE
James Barr was found guilty after a court trial in November last year of engaging in controlling and coercive behavior within an intimate or family relationship, spanning from January 1, 2016, to July 7, 2022.The 39-year-old, who previously resided in Askam-in-Furness, received his sentence at Preston Crown Court on January 27.
During the sentencing hearing, the victim the mother of Barr’s two children delivered a written impact statement behind a screen to protect her identity.
She described feeling trapped, helpless, and isolated.
She explained that Barr had dominated all elements of her life and deprived her of basic needs, like being able to shower.
She expressed feelings of worthlessness and ongoing fear, stating she often scans her surroundings when out.
Her primary worry was that Barr might manipulate their children, as he had done previously.
Prosecutor Megan Cox detailed that the relationship began in October 2013 when the victim was 19 years old.
She explained that initial controlling behaviors involved restricting her contact with her family and limiting who could see their children.
Ms Cox shared that the victim felt inadequate, and Barr would show her pictures of other women on dating apps, suggesting she should resemble them.
He also pressured her into undergoing cosmetic surgery, dictated her clothing choices, and referred to himself as resembling a “God” in comparisons.
She further described Barr’s extreme jealousy and the fact that he constantly monitored her communications.
She revealed he tracked her location via his phone, frequently bombarding her with messages and calls whenever she went out.
The court heard that when the victim attempted to end their relationship, Barr refused her departure, insisting she could not leave him.
He allegedly warned that if she left, she would lose contact with her children.
In defense, barrister John Woodward acknowledged Barr’s respect for the court’s verdict but emphasized that his client’s statements represented his truthful perspective.
He pointed out that Barr had not committed further offenses in the past three years.
Mr Woodward added that Barr was employed as a housekeeper at an Ambleside hotel, working in the Lake District, and urged the court to avoid immediate custody, suggesting it would be very difficult for Barr.
Nevertheless, Recorder Deane found the offense to be of such gravity that only immediate imprisonment was appropriate.
She sentenced Barr to two years and nine months behind bars and imposed a ten-year restraining order, citing the seriousness of his actions and the detrimental impact on the victim, highlighting that Barr blamed her and accused her of gaslighting, while also degrading and humiliating her over a prolonged period.
