A FORMER OSWESTRY MAN WHO SUBJECTED AN EX-PARTNER TO A ‘VILE ATTACK’ HAS ESCAPED JAIL
Justin Williams, aged 55 and resident of Stafford, carried out an assault on his former partner at his residence on Oswald Road on May 31 of this year.The incident occurred after he had invited her over to discuss their deteriorating relationship.
Prosecutor Kevin Jones informed Shrewsbury Crown Court, which is situated at Telford Justice Centre, that Williams admitted guilt on the morning of his trial.
This plea came after he sought to withdraw an earlier admission of guilt related to causing actual bodily harm, which he initially entered in July, and instructed his legal representatives to find new solicitors.
Mr.
Jones described how Williams's attack started with offensive language and escalated to physical violence, including kicking, punching, slapping, and attempting to strangle her.
He also attempted to gouge her eyes with his thumbs.
The assault reportedly lasted only several minutes.
The victim appeared in court to deliver a personal impact statement, stating to Recorder Michelle Heeley KC that she felt fortunate to survive the incident and that she required medical treatment for her injuries.
Representing Williams in mitigation, Elizabeth Power clarified she was not his trial lawyer but had provided legal advice since.
She noted that the relationship had been "happy at some point" and emphasised that, at 55, Williams understood he needed to be held accountable.
Ms.
Power appealed for a suspended sentence, highlighting that this was his first conviction of this nature, that he maintained steady employment, and had recently moved to Stafford into a new relationship.
She also mentioned that his partner monitors his behaviour and that he no longer consumes alcohol or recreational drugs.
During sentencing, Recorder Heeley KC condemned Williams for calling his partner vile names and attacking her, labelling him a bully.
She acknowledged the impact on the victim and emphasised that women should not have to tolerate such behaviour.
The judge noted that Williams’s pre-sentence report showed he still attempted to blame the victim rather than accept responsibility but also recognised his stable employment and efforts to address substance abuse.
Williams received a 21-month prison sentence, which was suspended for two years.
He was also ordered to complete 20 days of rehabilitative activities, 150 hours of unpaid work, and was subject to a 10-year restraining order.
Additionally, he was instructed to pay £300 in compensation to his victim and cover prosecution costs of £1,360.
