Robert Easom Jailed 16 Years for Paralyzing Ex-Partner After Breakup

Robert Easom received a 16-year prison sentence for a violent attack. This is a long sentence reflecting the severe harm caused.
By Newsroom | Crime, UK |

A Relationship's Tragic End: Paralysis and Imprisonment

A man has been given a 16-year prison sentence for a severe attack that left his former partner paralyzed. The incident occurred after the woman decided to end their relationship. This case highlights the devastating consequences of domestic abuse, with the victim now facing a lifelong need for specialized care and the perpetrator held accountable for his actions. The court emphasized the stark contrast between the perpetrator's future prospects and the future he has imposed on his victim.

Timeline of Abuse and Final Attack

Robert Easom, 57, was found guilty of wounding with intent following a trial at Preston Crown Court. The abuse reportedly spanned eight years and involved a pattern of escalating violence and control. Police stated that Easom's actions systematically eroded his partner's self-esteem, leaving her confused and broken.

Man who paralysed girlfriend in attack jailed for 16 years - 1

  • Pattern of Abuse: Examples of prior abuse included forcing the victim to clean up spilled food, pushing her against furniture, shouting at her, dangerous driving to frighten her, and headbutting.

  • Relationship Context: Easom met the woman shortly after her husband died.

  • The Climax: The abuse culminated in February when the victim informed Easom that she wanted to end their relationship.

  • The Attack: On February 17, Easom brought his partner tea in bed. During this interaction, he reportedly flew into a "sheer blind rage." He then headbutted her and dragged his stubble across her face, causing grazes. He later claimed to emergency services that she had fallen from the bed.

The victim, identified as Ms. Burgess, a 57-year-old teacher, meticulously documented Easom's abusive behavior in the notes section of her phone. These notes provided a record of both serious physical assaults and what she termed "low-level events," offering critical evidence of the prolonged abuse.

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  • Trial Verdict: Easom was convicted of wounding with intent after a trial.

  • Sentencing: He received a 16-year prison sentence.

Court's Perspective and Victim's Resilience

During the sentencing, the judge acknowledged the gravity of Easom's actions and the lasting impact on the victim.

Man who paralysed girlfriend in attack jailed for 16 years - 2

"They have brought enormous challenges and every day I'm learning how to rebuild my life in ways I never expected. What happened to me will always be a part of my life, but it will not be the thing that defines the rest of it."

The judge noted that Easom would have a prospect of a future, a future he had denied his victim.

Nature of the Abuse

The abuse described by police and detailed by the victim involved a spectrum of coercive and violent acts.

  • Psychological Control: Police reported that Easom's actions progressively damaged the victim's self-worth, creating a cycle of abuse from which she found it difficult to escape, even when she knew she needed to leave.

  • Physical Violence: This ranged from lesser acts like pushing and headbutting to the severe assault that resulted in paralysis.

  • Deception: After the attack, Easom attempted to mislead authorities by claiming the victim had fallen. When confronted by her family, he reportedly suggested they had been "messing around."

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why was Robert Easom sentenced to 16 years in prison?
Robert Easom was sentenced to 16 years for wounding with intent after a severe attack on his former partner. The attack left her paralyzed after she told him she wanted to end their relationship.
Q: What happened to Robert Easom's former partner?
Robert Easom's former partner was left paralyzed after he attacked her. She is now facing a lifelong need for specialized care and is learning to rebuild her life.
Q: How long did Robert Easom abuse his partner before the final attack?
The abuse by Robert Easom reportedly lasted for eight years. It included physical violence, psychological control, and dangerous driving.
Q: What evidence was used against Robert Easom in court?
The victim meticulously documented Easom's abusive behavior in her phone's notes section. This record, showing both serious assaults and 'low-level events,' was critical evidence.
Q: What did the judge say about Robert Easom's actions?
The judge noted the gravity of Easom's actions and the lasting impact on the victim. The judge also pointed out that Easom would have a future, a future he denied his victim.