Domestic violence victim feels 'free' as her abuser is jailed

A woman who escaped a controlling, abusive relationship feels "free" and has begun rebuilding her life as her attacker is jailed.

Shakori Bull, 23, of Assart Way, Chippenham, will serve 29 months in custody after he was found guilty of engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour in an intimate relationship, intentional strangulation and assault causing actual bodily harm.

Additionally, a 10-year restraining order against the victim was imposed during his sentencing at Winchester Crown Court on March 17.

Bull frequently subjected his victim to physical harm throughout their relationship, between October 1, 2022, and September 30, 2023.

He would often demand hundreds of pounds from the victim so that he could buy drugs despite being her registered carer.

The victim recalled being bitten and dragged through a pile of rotten food and cat faeces while Bull recorded her following a dispute about a bin bag not being removed.

This is just one example of the violent and degrading behaviour Bull displayed during the relationship, which lasted three years.

In a statement read to the court, the victim said: "The way Bull treated me, stripped me down to be able to be moulded into the person he could intimidate, control and abuse will never leave me.

"If I had one wish, it would to be the happy and outgoing girl I once was, who would be a fighter. I would tell myself to have never gotten on that train to Chippenham where I met Bull for the first time.

"Since leaving the relationship, I have been happier, feeling like I am free. I don't have to give explanations to anyone about where I am going or what I am doing. I can do things of my own accord.

"I look around now at my friends, family and partner and am in disbelief that I am important to them, treated with kindness and patience. They care for me, something Bull claimed to do but in actual fact did the opposite.

"I can safely say I am not now the person I was a year ago, trapped and scared in my own home.

"I can make decisions for myself without being controlled and bullied for someone else’s best interest. Even if that is something as minor as using whatever washing product I like or wearing makeup to feel good."

Police Constable Emily Marsh said: “Bull and any other vile domestic abusers will not be tolerated by Wiltshire Police.

"Protecting victims of this sort of crime is our utmost priority and we are dedicated to holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.

"I would like to commend the victim for her unwavering bravery throughout the investigation."

If you are suffering from abuse or suspect someone you know is, please contact us on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

You can also find details of support agencies on our website: Advice about domestic abuse | Wiltshire Police

If you are concerned about your own behaviour we'd also urge you to seek help. There are support services available to those who recognise and want to change their harmful behaviours in relationships including Open2Change.