SWANSEA MAN JAILED FOR COERCIVE CONTROL AND PHYSICAL ABUSE OF PARTNER
In a case highlighting severe domestic abuse, Michael Breakspear was found to have exerted relentless control over his partner’s daily life, going as far as deciding what she ate.He habitually tracked her through her phone and social media, held power over her bank accounts, and inflicted multiple physical attacks.
Swansea Crown Court was told that each time she tried to report the abuse, Breakspear threatened to “ruin her life,” discouraging her from pursuing the charges.
It was disclosed that after a sexual encounter left her bleeding, he declared that “it's not the first cervix I've broken.” The court also heard of violent episodes where he slapped, kicked, and pulled her hair, including incidents over her footwear choices and one where he covered her mouth and nose, causing her to feel she might lose consciousness.
His surveillance extended to reading her messages and controlling her finances by secretly transferring money.
His threatening and violent conduct formed part of a documented pattern of control and aggression.
Although she made multiple police reports, the woman later withdrew her complaints after being threatened by Breakspear.
The defendant, who previously admitted to coercive control and to intentionally suffocating her, received a three-year prison sentence following his guilty plea.
He has a lengthy criminal record, including 23 convictions for 33 offences, among which was a threat to pour acid on a former partner.
The judge commented on his apparent lack of remorse and his continued use of abusive tactics, including gaslighting.
Additionally, he was placed under an indefinite restraining order that prevents him from making contact with his ex-partner.
