Robert Easom, a 57-year-old man from Lancashire, has been sentenced to 16 years in prison after committing a brutal assault on his long-term girlfriend, Trudi Burgess, which resulted in her being paralysed from the chest down. The attack was the culmination of a long history of controlling, coercive, and violent behavior that Easom had exhibited over an eight-year period. During the assault, Easom attempted to mislead ambulance operators by claiming Burgess had merely 'fallen out of bed,' attempting to cover up the truth of his violent actions.

Easom's actions were characterized by a manipulative duality, described as 'Jekyll and Hyde,' showcasing his ability to switch between a caring partner and a violent abuser. The severity of the assault, where he applied pressure to Burgess's head while she was kneeling, reflects both the physical and psychological torment he inflicted on her. Ms. Burgess, who documented her experiences of abuse meticulously in her phone's notes, bravely came forward to ensure that her story was heard, which ultimately contributed to Easom's conviction.

Following the conviction, which took place at Preston Crown Court, Easom was not only sentenced to 16 years in prison but was also given an extended license period of four additional years, indicating the serious nature of his crimes. The ruling serves as a significant measure against domestic violence, emphasizing the importance of holding abusers accountable for their actions and supporting survivors in their journeys toward justice and recovery.