Domestic abuser jailed following Warwickshire Police investigation

Pallet would force the victim to sleep on the stairs, so much so that it left bruise marks on her skin

Author: Lia DesaiPublished 19th Aug 2024

A man from Nuneaton who subjected his ex-partner to daily abuse, threats and violence for eight years has been jailed.

Paul Pallet, 39, currently of Hewell Lane, Redditch was sentenced last week at Warwick Crown Court to seven years and two months in prison.

He had pleaded guilty to two counts of engaging in coercive and controlling behaviour, one count of causing grievous bodily harm, one count of intentional strangulation and two counts of assault. He was also issued with a twenty-year restraining order.

Police went to the house where Pallet lived with his ex-partner in September 2023 after concerns were raised for her safety and an investigation was launched by specially trained domestic abuse investigators. They also ensured support was put in place for the victim.

Pallet was arrested the following day and was promptly charged and remanded in custody.

Specially trained officers worked with the victim, advising her on domestic abuse charities that could offer psychological and practical advice around areas such as accommodation and finances.

The officers worked with the victim to uncover years of abuse.

The victim told police how in January 2023 Pallet attacked her feet with a 3kg dumbbell and continued to attack them over coming days with weapons including a hammer. They believe this attack caused a fracture in her foot.

Pallet would force the victim to sleep on the stairs, so much so that it left bruise marks on her skin.

He would also force her to stand by the front door or sit upright on the sofa for long periods of time. If she fell asleep, he would assault her.

He denied her access to medical treatment, isolated her from her family and friends, only allowed her one meal a day and forced her to take ice baths.

One attack caused the victim to fall over and break her arm. Pallet didn’t allow her to attend A&E for eight days.

Detective Constable Erin McGovern, a specialist domestic abuse investigator in Nuneaton, said: “I would like to commend the bravery of the victim who worked with us to secure the conviction of a very dangerous man.

“She has shown great courage and I hope this will reassure other victims of domestic abuse that we are there to listen and we will help to keep you safe.

“This investigation and sentence demonstrates our focus on tackling crime that disproportionally affects women and girls to ensure they feel safe in Warwickshire.

“Domestic abuse is a crime that often takes place behind closed doors, but victims should never feel like they are on their own.”

Victims of domestic abuse can report online, by calling 101 or going to a local police station. If a crime is progress or someone is in danger call 999.

For more advice on reporting domestic abuse and the support available go to www.warwickshire.police.uk/domestic-abuse/

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.