PAUL SAUNDERS OVERSEAL: HORRIFIC CONTROL AND COERCIVE BEHAVIOUR LEADS TO PRISON SENTENCE

Paul Saunders, a 40-year-old man from Overseal, has been convicted of controlling and coercive behaviour following a disturbing series of violent and manipulative acts directed at two women he met through online dating platforms. The case highlights a pattern of emotional abuse, physical violence, and psychological manipulation that spanned several months, culminating in a prison sentence and court-imposed restraining order.

According to court records, Saunders’s abusive conduct included degrading comments, physical assaults, and attempts to undermine the victims’ self-esteem. One of the women, whom Saunders called “the biggest woman I’ve been with,” was subjected to a harrowing ordeal that involved emotional humiliation and physical violence. During an incident in her car, Saunders attacked her in a violent rage, forcing her to beg him on her knees to stay with him. He also compelled her to drive to purchase alcohol, further demonstrating his controlling nature. His verbal abuse was equally severe; he called her “fat” and told her she was fortunate to be with him, all while showing her photographs of other women on dating sites, which served to diminish her self-worth.

In a separate incident, Saunders assaulted a second woman, who was significantly younger than the first. His violence was not limited to verbal abuse; he headbutted one victim, ripped her clothes, and knocked another unconscious during episodes of rage. Despite the physical injuries inflicted, Saunders continued to exert dominance, making the second woman beg on her hands and knees to remain with him. These acts of violence and control were carried out over several months, with Saunders dating one woman from December of the previous year until March, and overlapping his relationship with the second woman from January to May, without either of them knowing about the other.

Prosecutor Steven Taylor detailed the extent of Saunders’s manipulative behaviour, emphasizing that his actions were not only physically violent but also emotionally damaging. His pattern of behaviour included headbutting, ripping clothing, and verbal insults, all designed to humiliate and degrade his victims. The court heard that Saunders’s conduct was characterized by a disturbing level of control and emotional abuse, which caused significant psychological harm.

In court, Saunders pleaded guilty to two counts of controlling and coercive behaviour. His sentencing resulted in a prison term of 28 months. Additionally, the court issued a three-year restraining order to ensure the protection of the victims from further contact or harassment. The judge described the case as a serious example of humiliation, degradation, and violence, highlighting the emotional scars left on the victims. The sentencing reflects the court’s recognition of the severity of Saunders’s actions and the need to safeguard those affected from future harm.