A Wiltshire man who controlled his girlfriend’s life has avoided a prison sentence.
40-year-old James Nash, of Church Street, Great Bedwyn, subjected his partner to controlling and coercive behaviour between October 2022 and February this year.
He repeatedly checked her phone, called her obsessively while she was at work, and would turn up at her workplace without warning.
He also demanded she prove who she was with and accused her of cheating.
Nash ordered her to turn on her phone’s live location, dictated who she could speak to, and kept control of her house key – effectively isolating her from her family and friends.
The victim, in a powerful impact statement, said: “I was always frightened that I’d do something wrong and scared James would lose his temper.
“I was on edge all the time, I felt useless, helpless and completely trapped.
“I was unable to see my friends, family or even go to work without him following me. Nowhere was private, nowhere was safe.
“I still lack the confidence I had in myself before James. I have seen a counsellor, and she helped a bit, but I’ve still got a long way to go.”
She reported the abuse to Wiltshire Police and Nash was arrested and charged. He pleaded guilty to engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour earlier this year.
On Friday (6 June), he appeared at Winchester Crown Court and was handed a two-year prison sentence, suspended for two years.
He must also complete 80 hours of unpaid work and attend up to 26 sessions on a rehabilitation programme. A five-year restraining order was also imposed.
Detective Constable Dan England said: “Nash behaved in an obsessive, jealous and controlling manner, attempting to ensure that the victim had no life of her own.
“His actions caused the victim to feel frightened and constantly on edge, including at work where he would repeatedly bombard her with calls or turn up unannounced, meaning the victim could never relax.
“The judge described Nash’s behaviour as amounting to serious, substantial abuse and I agree with that description.
“The victim bravely reported the incident to the police and Nash was arrested.
“Wiltshire Police will always listen to victims of controlling and coercive behaviour and domestic abuse and ensure that perpetrators like Nash are put before the courts.”
