A woman who survived a controlling and abusive relationship has begun rebuilding her life after her attacker was jailed.
Shakori Bull, 23, of Assart Way, Chippenham, was sentenced to 29 months in prison for engaging in controlling and coercive behavior, intentional strangulation, and assault causing actual bodily harm. A 10-year restraining order was also imposed.
Bull subjected his victim to physical harm throughout their three-year relationship. He would often demand money from the victim to buy drugs, despite being her registered carer. The victim recalled being bitten and dragged through rotten food and cat faeces while Bull recorded her. This incident was just one example of the violent and degrading behavior Bull displayed.
In a statement read to the court, the victim said: "The way Bull treated me, stripped me down to be able to be moulded into the person he could intimidate, control and abuse will never leave me.
"If I had one wish, it would be to be the happy and outgoing girl I once was, who would be a fighter. I would tell myself to have never gotten on that train to Chippenham where I met Bull for the first time.
"Since leaving the relationship, I have been happier, feeling like I am free. I don't have to give explanations to anyone about where I am going or what I am doing. I can do things of my own accord.
"I look around now at my friends, family and partner and am in disbelief that I am important to them, treated with kindness and patience. They care for me, something Bull claimed to do but in actual fact did the opposite."
Police Constable Emily Marsh said: “Bull and any other vile domestic abusers will not be tolerated by Wiltshire Police. "Protecting victims of this sort of crime is our utmost priority and we are dedicated to holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. "I would like to commend the victim for her unwavering bravery throughout the investigation."
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