In a shocking incident that unfolded on 8 June 2020, a man identified as Shane Riley, aged 44, subjected his ex-partner to a horrifying assault, leaving her traumatised and injured. The incident took place in Soham, where an argument between Riley and the victim escalated into a violent confrontation after she informed him that their relationship was over.

According to reports, the altercation began in the victim’s home and quickly spilt over into the garden. In a fit of rage, Riley pushed her forcefully, causing her to fall over a chair and sustain an injury to her leg. The following day, tensions continued to escalate as Riley slapped and punched the woman, causing her to collapse onto the floor. Shockingly, he persisted in his assault, ignoring her pleas to stop and callously stating, “I’ve never hit a woman like this before, but now I’m doing it I am actually quite enjoying it.”

As the attack intensified, Riley went on to smash the woman’s phone, issuing threats to her life, and kicking her to the shin. In a final act of brutality, he forced her upstairs and headbutted her, leaving her with no means of escape. Fearful for her safety, the victim bided her time until Riley fell asleep. She then managed to flee the property and seek refuge at a friend’s home, where the authorities were alerted.

Riley, a resident of High Street, Swansea, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including assault causing actual bodily harm, common assault, making threats to kill, and criminal damage. On 24 November, he faced sentencing at Peterborough Crown Court and was handed a 23-month jail term. In addition, he received a ten-year restraining order, preventing any contact with the victim.

Detective Sergeant Josh Mills, who led the investigation, expressed his shock at the sustained and horrifying ordeal the victim had endured. He condemned Riley’s sickening statement about enjoying the assault and commended the justice system for holding him accountable for his actions. Det. Sgt. Mills reinforced the commitment of the authorities to tackle domestic abuse and urged anyone experiencing such situations to seek help and support.

Victims of domestic abuse were encouraged to reach out to the police or contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247 for assistance.