Charles Morrice, 23, of Simmonds Walk, Wantage, was sentenced at Oxford Crown Court on Tuesday, April 16, for assault occasioning actual bodily harm and coercive and controlling behaviour.
The Assault
On December 17 last year, the court heard that Morrice became angry during a disagreement with a pregnant woman in her late teens. His anger escalated, leading to a violent attack. Morrice threw a plate at the victim during the argument, and the following morning, his abusive behaviour intensified.
He grabbed the victim by the shoulders, shook her violently, threw her against a wall, ripped her clothing, bit, and repeatedly struck her in the face. These acts of violence left the victim bruised and suffering from a pounding headache. Although a third party briefly intervened, Morrice continued to assault the victim after they left. Following this, he hurled a bottle at her in frustration and exhibited deeply controlling behaviour by demanding reassurances about their relationship.
His violence escalated further as he began smashing furniture, then physically forced the victim into other pieces of furniture, causing her to hit her head. Despite her cries of pain, Morrice continued to bite her and ignored her desperate pleas to stop.
The Victim’s Attempt to Escape
In a brave attempt to escape, the victim—a pregnant woman with no clothing and no access to her mobile phone, which Morrice had previously destroyed—fled the property. However, she was forced to return when Morrice pursued her.
Further Assault
After her return, the victim endured another series of assaults. Morrice used a crochet hook to lash her back, leaving marks, and continued to punch, slap, and bite her. In a moment of chilling indifference, Morrice began to play the guitar, mocking her appearance and making shocking comments about her unborn child. At one point, he questioned if the fetus was still alive and disturbingly remarked that he didn’t want to wake up next to a dead woman in the morning.
The Aftermath
Fearful for her life and that of her unborn child, the victim requested to go to the hospital the following day. Morrice’s response to this plea was: “I could always do more.” In a moment of courage, she managed to escape and seek help. Despite the clear evidence of his violent and controlling behaviour, Morrice blamed the victim, claiming her actions had provoked him.
Sentence
Morrice has been handed a three-year prison sentence and an indefinite restraining order against the victim, a decisive step in ensuring her safety.
This case underscores the importance of addressing domestic violence and coercive control. If you or someone you know is experiencing similar abuse, do not hesitate to seek professional help. Support services are available to offer assistance to victims of domestic violence in the Wantage area.
If you’re a local business or service offering support in this area, consider creating a free profile in our directory to reach more individuals in need of assistance.
