Court hears details of assaults
Swansea Crown Court was told that 39‑year‑old Gavin Powell, of Bethania Street, Glynneath, carried out two assaults in January this year.
On New Year’s Day 2025, Powell grabbed his partner by the throat, forced her face into a pillow and bit her on the face and nose. Just over two weeks later, on January 17, he turned up at her home intoxicated and became aggressive after learning she had spoken to a former boyfriend.
The court heard Powell punched her in the face, pinned her down on a sofa and repeatedly struck her body and arms. When she tried to escape, he kicked her in the leg, dragged her back by the hair and demanded she go upstairs.
The victim later sought medical help at Neath Port Talbot Hospital and was advised to attend Morriston Hospital’s emergency department due to the extent of her injuries. In a statement read to the court, she said Powell’s behaviour had made her feel like her life was “not worth living any more” and that she had been left suffering flashbacks and fear.
Guilty plea and sentencing
Powell initially denied the charges but later pleaded guilty to assault by beating and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He was sentenced to two years and six months in prison and ordered to pay a £228 victim surcharge.
Judge Catherine Richards described the attacks as “prolonged and persistent” and imposed a five‑year restraining order preventing Powell from contacting his victim.
Police statement
Following sentencing, PC Lee Morgan of South Wales Police said: “Gavin Powell carried out vile attacks on his partner and left her living a life of fear and misery. Nobody should ever have to put up with any form of abuse from their partner. We are pleased that with his arrest and sentencing, she will not have to put up with his abuse any longer. We hope that she can now move on with her life, free from Gavin Powell’s abuse.”
Support for survivors
South Wales Police emphasised that domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, sexuality or background. Survivors are urged to report abuse online, call 101, or dial 999 in an emergency. Reports can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
