Lurgan, Northern Ireland – A man from Lurgan has been sentenced to jail for a violent assault on his ex-girlfriend. The perpetrator, Simon Andrew Taylor of Trasna Way, left his former partner with a 7cm laceration to her head after a disturbing altercation. The incident, described as “harrowing” by the court, took place in their shared residence.
At Craigavon Crown Court, Taylor appeared for sentencing after pleading guilty to a Section 20 assault charge. Initially facing a more serious Section 18 charge, the prosecution accepted the lesser charge due to the victim’s change in attitude and desire to move forward with her life. The court heard details of the events that unfolded on the night of June 18, when police were called to their home following a disturbance.
According to the victim, alcohol fueled the violent encounter, with Taylor playing loud music and engaging in abusive behavior. The situation escalated when the victim attempted to move a speaker, leading to Taylor’s aggressive actions. He hurled a crystal glass at her head, causing her to briefly lose consciousness. The assault continued with Taylor repeatedly striking her and choking her as she tried to escape.
The victim’s harrowing experience left her physically and mentally traumatized, leading to a deep depressive state. Taylor, with a history of assault convictions but none in a domestic setting, was remorseful in court, attributing his actions to intoxication. Despite receiving a 12-month custodial sentence and 16 months on license, Taylor is expected to be released before summer due to time already served on remand.
The judge, His Honour Judge Patrick Lynch KC, recognized the severity of the incident and imposed a sentence intended to hold Taylor accountable for his actions. The victim’s impact statement underscored the lasting effects of the assault, emphasizing the need for justice and closure in the case. As the community reflects on this disturbing event, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing and preventing domestic violence.