Prosecutors want protection for woman who suffered a two-year campaign of abuse

Prosecutors have requested protection for a woman who endured a two-year campaign of abuse from her boyfriend, as revealed in Hamilton Sheriff Court. The court heard that the woman woke up in hospital with a black eye at one point, but her boyfriend, Steven Fay, urged her not to seek treatment. Fay, 22, admitted to a pattern of abusive behaviour towards the woman in locations such as Strathaven and East Kilbride from May 2022 to May of the current year. This behaviour included physical and verbal abuse, as well as monitoring her social media activity. The court was informed that the couple had heated arguments, one of which resulted in Fay grabbing the woman by the throat.

During an incident in October 2022, the woman blacked out after consuming alcohol in her home with Fay, only to wake up in the hospital with a black eye. Despite needing treatment, Fay convinced her to leave before receiving assistance. Police were called on another occasion to find the woman in distress with a head injury caused by Fay, who became aggressive towards officers when they arrived. An event in May 2024 at an address in East Kilbride left the woman extremely upset, with Fay throwing furniture around and leaving the property in disarray.

Despite facing charges for domestic abuse, breaching bail conditions, and assaulting police officers, Fay has a history of convictions for similar offences involving the same woman. The Crown prosecutor expressed concern over the level of violence displayed by Fay and suggested that he poses a danger to the woman. Fay’s lawyer mentioned that his client has been reflecting on his actions since his arrest in May, acknowledging his alcohol problem and expressing a commitment to sobriety.

The sentencing for Fay has been deferred by Sheriff Michael Higgins for background reports and consideration of imposing a non-harassment order. Although there is still contact between the couple and the woman is not in favour of a non-harassment order, the Crown strongly recommends its implementation due to the serious violence inflicted by Fay. Fay remains in custody awaiting further legal proceedings.

In a bid to protect the victim, prosecutors are urging the court to take necessary measures to safeguard her from further harm and abuse. Fay’s repeated pattern of abusive behaviour highlights the importance of addressing and confronting domestic violence in all its forms. It is crucial for authorities to intervene and provide support to victims of abuse while holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. Such cases serve as a stark reminder of the prevalence of domestic violence in our society and the need for continued efforts to combat it effectively.