In a troubling case reported in Latvia, the Zemgale District Court is set to hear a criminal case against a man accused of long-standing physical and emotional abuse directed at his wife and child. Over a span of nine years, the man is alleged to have controlled his wife violently, frequently issuing threats to kill her, take away their children, or separate from her. The abuse included humiliating and verbally assaulting his wife, as well as physically assaulting her. According to the allegations, in moments of anger compounded by alcohol consumption, he violently struck her with his fists and engaged in strangulation.

The accusations against the man also detail instances of sexual coercion, where he reportedly forced his wife into sexual relations against her will. A particularly alarming incident occurred in the spring of 2022 when he became enraged after she refused his sexual advances, leading him to physically attack her by strangling her with both hands. This incident was marked by further escalation of violence, where he tore off her clothing and raped her, disregarding her consent completely.

The ongoing abuse was accompanied by frequent threats to her life, often made under the influence of alcohol. This case highlights significant issues regarding domestic violence and the judicial system's response in Latvia, raising important questions about the support available for victims of such abuse and the societal measures needed to tackle and prevent domestic violence effectively.