A woman has shared her harrowing experience of being strangled by her abusive ex-partner after buying her son a Chelsea football kit for his 10th birthday. Paris Shears, 30, from Southampton, was assaulted by Robert Lee Hastings, 30, a Manchester United supporter, in November 2023. The attack left her fearing for her life, and despite reporting the incident, Hastings received a suspended sentence, prompting Paris to launch a campaign for justice.
The Attack
Paris, a mother of three, described the horrific incident: 'I made the mistake of showing him the Chelsea kit first. He threw me up against the wall, and started choking me and shaking my neck. I started to lose consciousness when he let go of me and ran downstairs, where my two kids were.' She chased after him to ensure her children were safe. This was not the first instance of violence; Hastings had previously slapped her and grabbed her by the hair during a video game argument in December 2022.
Relationship and Reporting
Paris met Hastings online in August 2022, and he initially seemed affectionate. She became pregnant in January 2023. However, the relationship turned abusive. In April 2024, Paris ended the relationship and reported Hastings to the police for strangulation and battery. He was arrested in September 2024 and charged with intentional strangulation and battery. During the trial in March 2026, Hastings changed his plea to guilty.
Legal Outcome
On April 14, 2026, Hastings was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, and given a five-year restraining order. Two other charges, including controlling and coercive behaviour, were left on file. Paris expressed her dismay: 'When I got the call to say he received a suspended sentence, it took the wind out of me. I felt like I had come forward for nothing. It was disheartening. I don't feel like justice has been served.'
Impact on Paris
Since the sentencing, Paris has suffered extreme insomnia, lost over nine stone due to stress, and rarely leaves her home out of fear. 'Knowing he is out there, living his life is upsetting to me. He has escaped prison, but I have been sentenced to being a prisoner in my own home. I am terrified 24 hours a day,' she said.
Campaign for Change
On April 21, 2026, Paris launched a petition calling on the UK Government to remove sentence reductions for late guilty pleas. The petition has garnered over 102,000 signatures, surpassing the threshold for a parliamentary debate. Liberal Democrat MP Liz Jarvis commented: 'I am inspired by Paris's campaign. She has given a voice to victims of coercive control. A debate means her story will be heard in Parliament, and I will push for changes.'
Domestic Abuse and Football
Domestic violence incidents related to football are not uncommon. Research shows a 26% increase in abuse when the England team wins or draws, and 38% when they lose. Tournaments like the Euros and World Cup can intensify existing abuse. During the 2024 Euros, police recorded 351 incidents of football-related domestic abuse. One in four women and one in six men experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.
Support for Victims
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, you are not alone. The National Domestic Abuse Helpline (0808 2000 247) is open 24/7. In emergencies, call 999. The Silent Solution allows you to press 55 to signal an emergency if you cannot speak. Refuge recommends documenting incidents and preparing an emergency bag. Local refuges offer confidential accommodation.
