In a harrowing case of domestic violence, a man has been sentenced to 16 years in prison for leaving his partner paralyzed after she told him she was ending their relationship. Robert Easom, 57, was convicted at Preston Crown Court for a brutal assault that severed his former partner's spinal cord, resulting in permanent paralysis.
Relentless Campaign of Abuse
Lancashire Police detailed that Easom waged a relentless campaign of coercive and controlling behavior against Trudi Burgess from 2017 to 2025. This included multiple incidents of physical assault and verbal abuse, creating a cycle of violence followed by apologetic gestures. Ms. Burgess documented these abuses in the notes section of her phone, providing crucial evidence for the trial.
Brutal Assault on February 17, 2025
The attack occurred on February 17, 2025, when Ms. Burgess informed Easom she was leaving him. In response, he launched a violent assault that left her with a severed spinal cord, requiring lifelong specialist care. This incident marked the culmination of years of abuse, which had previously included dragging her upstairs by the head in 2019 and strangling her with a sheet in 2021.
Court Sentencing and Judge's Remarks
During sentencing, Judge Robert Altham emphasized the severity of Easom's actions, stating, "No sentence I can pass upon you could begin to equal the harm that you have caused." He imposed a 16-year prison term, followed by a four-year extended licence period, to protect the public. The judge noted that while a life sentence was not warranted, an extended determinate sentence was necessary due to the risk Easom poses.
Previous Admissions and Charges
Easom had previously admitted to engaging in coercive and controlling behavior and two charges of actual bodily harm. The court found him guilty of wounding with intent after a trial, highlighting the premeditated nature of the final assault. Police reports revealed that Easom often justified his abuse, such as claiming he was "just trying to teach her a lesson" after the strangulation incident.
Impact on the Victim and Community
Ms. Burgess's life has been irrevocably altered by the attack, with her now dependent on specialized care for daily activities. The case has drawn attention to the dangers of coercive control in relationships, underscoring the need for increased awareness and support for victims. Lancashire Police have commended her bravery in coming forward and providing evidence that led to the conviction.
This sentencing serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of legal measures to hold perpetrators accountable. Authorities continue to urge anyone experiencing similar abuse to seek help and report incidents to ensure safety and justice.
