DAVID LONG – CORNWALL

2026 – A violent “alcoholic thug” has been described as an “incredibly cruel and manipulative individual” by the former partner he assaulted in a booze-fuelled attack.

David Long, 37, appeared before Truro Crown Court where he was sentenced after violently beating his ex-partner following what was said to be an argument over very little.

The court heard that in January last year, Long – who has an alcohol problem – punched his ex several times in the face, put his hands around her throat and broke her nose.

As a result of the assault, she suffered significant bruising to her face and neck, a fractured nose and a chest injury. She later told the court that although this was not the first time she had been assaulted by Long, it was the first time she required medical attention.

Following the attack, Long was arrested and eventually pleaded guilty to one charge of causing actual bodily harm.

His Honour Judge Simon Carr sentenced him to 21 months in prison, suspended for two years. He was also ordered to complete 300 hours of unpaid work.

The judge imposed a restraining order preventing him from contacting his former partner or attending a specified address. In addition, Long was banned from entering Redruth for 10 years, meaning his victim no longer has to live in fear of encountering him there.

Speaking after the sentencing hearing, the victim described the long-term impact the assault has had on her life.

“As a result of the assault in January of last year I suffered from significant bruising of the face and neck as well as a fractured nose and a chest injury,” she said.

“This was not the first time I’d been assaulted by Long but it was the first time I required medical attention.”

She went on to describe the emotional abuse she endured during the relationship.

“Long is an incredibly cruel and manipulative individual. I experienced a great deal of emotional abuse such as being insulted on a regular basis then mocked if I became upset by this.”

Over the past year, she said she has suffered from nightmares, depression and anxiety, as well as periods of insomnia.

“These things will continue to affect me for many years and I will never truly feel safe again.”

She added that coming forward about the attacks and the alcohol-fuelled violence she was subjected to had been an ordeal in itself.

“I feel that alcoholism is not a good enough excuse for violence and abuse. Speaking to the police and going through the legal system has been a long terrifying process and I understand why many victims feel unable to do this, having support from family, friends and a domestic abuse counsellor has given me the strength to get through this.

“Abusers rely on the silence of their victims which is why I feel it is important to speak out about my experience.”

The case highlights the lasting trauma domestic abuse can cause and the importance of victims being supported when they come forward.