DOMESTIC ABUSER JAILED FOR TWO YEARS
A man from Aberdeen who deliberately set fire to his partner’s hair and used a cigarette to burn her body has been described as a “cowardly and cruel” offender and received a prison sentence of over two years.William Murray, age 39, admitted to one charge related to a 16-month period of domestic abuse, as well as contacting the woman while bound by a court order.
The Aberdeen Sheriff Court was told that Murray’s partner, who has learning difficulties, eventually found the courage to report his criminal behaviour to the authorities, leading to his conviction.
Fiscal depute Andrew McMann outlined that Murray was addicted to crack cocaine and from early in their relationship, he requested money from her to buy drugs.
The court was informed that her finances are managed by a family member through a guardianship order.
When she refused to provide money, Murray’s violence escalated.
Mr McMann explained: “When the complainer did manage to get money, the accused would send her out to source controlled drugs for him, which included inducing her to take a taxi in the middle of the night to meet strangers where she would purchase controlled drugs.” He also began to restrict her visits to medical appointments and her contact with family, becoming increasingly controlling and aggressive.
On one occasion, she returned home to find Murray demanding money, despite her having none.
During this incident, he set fire to her hair and bit her on the cheek, causing facial injuries.
On another occasion, Murray assaulted her by burning her twice on the shoulder with a cigarette, leaving two burn marks.
Despite her attempts to end the relationship and police contact, Murray convinced her to reconcile, but the violence continued.
He forced her to procure drugs again and once locked her inside a house after she tried to escape.
Police responded after she called for help.
Defence agent, David Sutherland, requested a community-based punishment, but the judge, Sheriff Ian Wallace, stated only a custodial sentence was suitable.
He described the abuse as serious, specifically noting the period of 16 months and the victim’s vulnerability.
The sheriff condemned Murray’s conduct as violent, cowardly, and cruel, especially noting that these actions occurred while he was out on bail.
Murray was sentenced to 26 months in prison, and a non-harassment order was imposed, banning him from contacting the woman for 15 years.
