Sheffield man who smashed glass vase over pregnant partner's head jailed over prolonged campaign of abuse

46-year-old John Copeland was sentenced to three years in prison during a hearing held at Sheffield Crown Court on Friday, May 5, after a prolonged campaign of mental and physical abuse against a woman he was in a relationship with.

The court heard how over the three year period, Copeland coercively controlled his victim and assaulted her on several occasions, with the most serious incident including Copeland smashing a glass vase over his victim's head, whilst she was heavily pregnant, which hit her hand and caused significant injuries.

Speaking in court, the victim recalled the significant impact Copeland's abuse has had on her life.

She said: "Although the physical scars from the physical abuse John subjected me to have faded or disappeared, the mental scars I now have are unhealable. They will stay with me for the rest of my life.

"I find it difficult to build any form of relationships such as friendships and work relationships. I find it so hard to trust others and let myself be vulnerable again. I want this whole ordeal to be over, however what I can say is since leaving this abusive relationship, even though it’s been incredibly difficult time, I’ve achieved a lot in the last year”.

Copeland, formerly of Hesley Road, in Shiregreen, pleaded guilty to Section 20 assault, coercive and controlling behaviour, and breaching a restraining order at an earlier court hearing.

In addition to the three year jail sentence, Copeland was also handed a ten year restraining order.

Speaking after Copeland was sent to begin his prison sentence, Acting Sergeant Ceire Kinsella, who led the investigation, said: "The victim in this case has shown tremendous strength and conviction of character, from first reporting the awful abuse she suffered, supporting our investigation, all the way through to Copeland's conviction and sentencing.

"It is no exaggeration to say that Copeland's sustained abuse and controlling behaviour made his victim feel as though she had no way out. He showed no regard for the woman he was meant to be in a loving and caring relationship with, instead subjecting her to violence and control. She only felt confident enough to finally report the abuse several months after she left him.

A/PS Kinsella added: "Copeland's behaviour was truly despicable, and this type of abuse can have a devastating impact upon its victims and have long-lasting psychological effects. I hope this sentencing helps to show victims of domestic abuse that even if the abuse took place months or years before it is reported to us, we will still investigate it thoroughly and do everything we can do bring those responsible in front of the courts.

"I would urge anybody who has found themselves in abusive relationships, either historically or currently, to come forward.”

The UK government’s definition of domestic violence is ‘any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality.

The abuse can encompass, but is not limited to psychological, physical, sexual, financial, emotional harm.

People experiencing domestic abuse can report it to police by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.

You can also speak to friends, neighbours and family members. Further advice and help can be found via the force’s deciated domestic abuse page here.