Abigail Steggles, a 33-year-old cosmetic surgery worker from Tamworth, has avoided an immediate jail sentence after admitting to coercive and controlling behaviour and criminal damage against her partner. The sentence was handed down at Stafford Crown Court on July 10.
Details of the Offences
Prosecutors outlined a series of allegations, including Steggles dictating how money could be spent, deleting telephone numbers, and blocking people from contacting her partner. The court also heard about an incident where a measuring tape was thrown.
In a victim impact statement summarised by the prosecution, the victim said he felt "uncomfortable" and embarrassed and did not want to come across as "bitter". The prosecutor noted that as a man and father working in a heavily male-dominated environment, it was a time of his life in which he was badly affected, and his mental health suffered.
Judge's Remarks and Sentencing
His Honour Judge John Edwards addressed Steggles directly, saying: "Abigail Steggles, stand up please. You are aged 33, of good character." He added that these were "extremely stale offences, but still unpleasant for your partner because he was belittled in quite an unpleasant way." The judge stated he had taken a view of the amount of time that had passed, noting that Steggles is self-employed in the cosmetic surgery business.
Steggles, of John Street in Glascote, Tamworth, changed her pleas on the first day of trial. A charge of assault was withdrawn, and a further assault charge was ordered to lie on file.
Community Order Imposed
Judge Edwards sentenced Steggles to a 12-month community order, which includes 60 hours of unpaid work and five Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days. The sentence means she will serve her punishment in the community rather than in custody.
