A courageous domestic abuse survivor has shared her harrowing journey after years of relentless violence and control at the hands of her ex-partner, Haroun Yasin Mohammed Berghout, who has been jailed for three years and four months.
The woman, who endured years of coercive control and violent assaults, described living in constant fear, stating, “It became a question of ‘when’ he might kill me, rather than ‘if’ he would kill me.” Her abuser, known as Yas, systematically broke down her self-worth, subjecting her to repeated assaults, including punching, strangling, and kicking, while controlling every aspect of her life.
“The mental and physical effects started to take over my life,” she revealed. “I lost hair, I lost weight and had bruises and scratches all over my body. Sleep no longer existed; just nightmares as I’d relive the torture.”
Friends and family, growing increasingly concerned for her safety, contacted Surrey Police and urged her to support the investigation, which uncovered the full extent of Berghout’s violent behavior.
Sentencing at Guildford Crown Court
On 6 February 2025, at Guildford Crown Court, Berghout, 27, of Richmond, was sentenced to three years and four months’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to:
- Coercive and Controlling Behaviour
- Intentional Strangulation
- Criminal Damage
- Three counts of Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm
He was also handed a 10-year restraining order, prohibiting any contact with the survivor and her family.
The Survivor’s Message
The survivor spoke candidly about the difficulty of leaving an abusive relationship, highlighting the emotional and psychological barriers victims often face. “For those who have never experienced domestic abuse, leaving is so much harder than it may seem. Daily, I live with the guilt that I wasn’t able to leave sooner,” she said.
Her abuser had not only threatened her but also targeted her family and friends, instilling fear and isolation. Yet, with the support of her loved ones and law enforcement, she found the strength to break free.
“I’m grateful to everyone around me that encouraged me to this point and have endlessly supported me. It was extremely daunting, but Surrey Police and the investigating officer were brilliant. I now stand here, not just for me, but for all those who have been affected by domestic abuse. Abuse is not ‘your fault’. It’s not ‘normal’. And you don’t ‘deserve it’.”
Investigation Unveiled Years of Abuse
PC Christopher Finucane, who led the investigation, praised the survivor’s bravery, noting that the case initially appeared to be an isolated incident but ultimately revealed a three-year pattern of abuse.
“The fact that Berghout is behind bars is down to the bravery of the victim who secretly recorded evidence of the abuse, resulting in more than 100 evidential exhibits proving years of repeat offending,” PC Finucane said.
The investigation was further strengthened by witnesses who provided statements, contributing to the overwhelming evidence that led to Berghout’s guilty pleas on all charges.
Support for Domestic Abuse Victims
PC Finucane issued a strong message to anyone experiencing domestic abuse: “We urge anyone who may be the victim of domestic abuse to come forward. You will be believed and you will be supported. If you aren’t ready to speak to us, reach out to one of our brilliant Surrey-based charities who can offer sanctuary and practical, as well as emotional, support.”
Victims of domestic abuse can reach out to the following resources for support:
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline – Call 0808 2000 247 (24/7)
- Surrey Domestic Abuse Helpline – Call 01483 776822
- Women’s Aid – Visit www.womensaid.org.uk for information and help
- Surrey Police – Call 101 or dial 999 in an emergency
This case highlights the devastating impact of domestic abuse but also showcases the strength and resilience of survivors who fight to reclaim their lives.
