MARC MASTERTON SENTENCED IN PORTSMOUTH FOR COERCIVE CONTROL AND ABUSE

Marc Masterton, a 26-year-old man from Portsmouth, has been formally sentenced in connection with two separate cases involving coercive control and physical abuse against former partners. The court proceedings revealed the extent of his violent and controlling behavior, particularly towards his ex-girlfriend, Zoe Castle, during their tumultuous relationship in Southsea, Hampshire.

Masterton pleaded guilty to charges related to controlling and physically assaulting Ms. Castle, a relationship that lasted approximately two years. Court reports detailed a disturbing pattern of violence inflicted upon her, including an incident where he struck her over the head with a glass bottle. Additionally, he was found to have cut her finger with a knife and violently thrown her into a wardrobe during heated episodes. The court also heard that he subjected her to an ice bath in freezing cold water, an act intended to intimidate and control her. These acts of violence and coercion left Ms. Castle in a state of constant fear, as she recounted during her victim impact statement, “I have lived in constant fear of being beaten, or losing the most precious thing in my life, my daughter.” She described her ordeal as “the very worst time of my life” and disclosed that she has since been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. Ms. Castle further explained that Masterton’s abusive behavior made her feel trapped, stating, “He made me know I had no choice but to stay and accept his constant abuse.”

The court also considered Masterton’s criminal history, which includes previous convictions for similar offenses, highlighting a pattern of violent and controlling conduct. The judge acknowledged the severe impact of his actions on Ms. Castle and praised her bravery for coming forward and sharing her experiences publicly. As part of the sentencing, Masterton was handed a total prison term of three years and seven months. This sentence will be served consecutively to a prior sentence he received for offenses against another victim, Chloe Holland. Furthermore, a restraining order was issued to prevent any further contact between Masterton and Ms. Castle, aiming to protect her from potential harm.

Authorities from Hampshire police and the judicial system described Masterton’s treatment of women as “utterly horrifying,” emphasizing the urgent need for stricter legislation to combat coercive control and domestic abuse. The case has garnered significant media attention, partly due to the tragic death of Chloe Holland, who took her own life after enduring domestic abuse inflicted by Masterton. Holland had previously reported her experiences to the police before her death, adding a tragic layer to the case’s significance. The court’s verdict underscores the seriousness with which the justice system views coercive control and domestic violence, sending a clear message that offenders will face appropriate legal consequences for their actions.