A man has been sentenced to 16 years in prison for his role in a brutal attack that left his partner paralyzed. Robert Easom, aged 57, was found guilty of wounding with intent after a trial at Preston Crown Court. This case highlights the grave consequences of domestic abuse and the impact of coercive control.
Details of the Case Against Robert Easom
Easom’s abusive behavior spanned several years, manifesting as coercive and controlling actions towards his former partner, Trudi Burgess. The abuse persisted from 2017 until 2025 and included both physical assaults and verbal maltreatment. His actions culminated in a critical incident that occurred on February 17, 2025.
Brutal Assault and Aftermath
After Burgess informed Easom of her decision to leave him, he responded with a violent attack. During this assault, he inflicted severe injuries, resulting in the severing of her spinal cord and ultimately leaving her paralyzed. Following the incident, Burgess required specialized care to manage her new condition.
History of Abuse
- Easom had a history of controlling behavior, documented by Burgess in her phone notes.
- In 2019, he dragged her by the head and banged her against stairs.
- A harrowing incident in 2021 involved him covering her head with a sheet and strangling her.
Police reports noted that Easom sometimes exhibited apologetic behavior after assaults, creating a cycle of abuse. This manipulation led to a dangerous environment for Burgess, who lived in constant fear of his violent tendencies.
Judicial Response and Sentencing
The presiding judge, Robert Altham, expressed the profound harm caused by Easom’s actions during sentencing. He stated that no punishment could truly match the extent of the damage inflicted on Burgess. Nevertheless, he imposed a 16-year prison sentence, along with an extended four-year license period, aimed at public protection.
Easom’s convictions include wounding with intent, two counts of actual bodily harm, and the practice of coercive and controlling behavior. The severity of his sentence reflects the judicial system’s commitment to tackling domestic violence and its consequences.
This case serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need to address and prevent domestic abuse, emphasizing the importance of support for victims like Trudi Burgess.
