A man who exerted control over his girlfriend and caused her to become paralyzed in a vicious attack tried to mislead ambulance operators by claiming she had fallen out of bed. Robert Easom, 57, assaulted Trudi Burgess after years of dominating and violent behavior, resulting in her paralysis from the chest down. He received a 16-year prison sentence with an additional four years on extended licence at Preston Crown Court. Ms. Burgess, 57, had recorded the abuse in her phone notes.
In addition to severe physical assaults, Ms. Burgess detailed enduring what she termed as “low-level events” that became normalized, creating a cycle of verbal and physical abuse followed by apologies and affection from Easom.
On February 17 last year, Ms. Burgess informed Easom of her decision to leave him, prompting a brutal attack that severed her spinal cord. When Easom called for an ambulance, he falsely claimed she had fallen from the bed.
During the court proceedings, Ms. Burgess expressed the devastating impact the crime had on her life, highlighting the loss of her health, independence, ability to care for her family, career, and peace of mind. She emphasized the ongoing physical, emotional, and mental struggles she faces daily as a result of the permanent injury.
Easom, previously residing on Longridge Road, Chipping, was found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and admitted to engaging in coercive and controlling behavior and two counts of actual bodily harm. Testifying in court, Ms. Burgess described the horrifying attack and the fear she experienced as Easom relentlessly assaulted her.
The judge, Recorder of Preston Judge Robert Altham KC, criticized Easom for his self-centered actions following the incident and acknowledged Ms. Burgess’s courage in revealing the truth despite initial attempts to cover up the assault.
Following the sentencing, the Crown Prosecution Service praised Ms. Burgess’s strength throughout the trial, emphasizing her support in building a strong case against Easom. Detective Constable Bethanie Kirk of Lancashire Constabulary condemned Easom as a manipulative and cowardly individual with dangerous views towards women.
Ms. Burgess’s brother, Charlie, spoke on her behalf outside the court, expressing his determination to help others recognize and address early signs of abuse. He emphasized the importance of open dialogue about coercive control and domestic abuse to support women in similar situations.
Support for domestic abuse victims is available through the National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247.
