Swindon man charged with serious offences after police attend domestic disturbance

A man has been charged with a number of serious offences after Wiltshire Police responded to an incident in Swindon.

Officers raced to reports of a domestic disturbance at an address in Cowleaze Walk, Upper Stratton, on Wednesday (29 December).

Colin Hawkins, 37, was arrested at the scene and later charged with seven offences against his partner.

Remanded in custody, the defendant will appear before Swindon Magistrates’ Court today (31 December) charged with:

• Engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour between 1 September and 29 December – including restricting his partner’s movement and contact with family and friends

• Threats to kill on 29 December

• Assault by beating on 29 December

• Arson on 29 December

• False imprisonment on 27 December

• Actual bodily harm on 27 December

• Grievous bodily harm on 19 December

Witnesses saw at least six police cars and a dog unit attending the scene at around 10pm, along with an ambulance.

Please reach out if you are in an abusive relationship. There are people who can help you – don’t suffer alone. Find a list of local and national organisations supporting male and female survivors on our Domestic Violence Helplines page. In an emergency, always call 999.