A woman who escaped a controlling and abusive relationship feels free and is beginning to rebuild her life following the jailing of her attacker, Shakori Bull. Bull, 23, of Assart Way, Chippenham, was sentenced to 29 months in prison at Winchester Crown Court on March 25, 2025. He was found guilty of engaging in controlling and coercive behavior in an intimate relationship, intentional strangulation, and assault causing actual bodily harm.
In addition to his prison sentence, the court also imposed a 10-year restraining order against the victim, reflecting the seriousness of Bull's actions. The court heard that Bull subjected his victim to repeated physical harm and manipulation throughout their relationship. He frequently demanded hundreds of pounds from her to buy drugs, despite serving as her registered carer.
The victim bravely testified about the degrading treatment she endured, recalling a particularly harrowing incident where she was bitten and dragged through a pile of rotten food and cat feces while Bull recorded the event. This abuse occurred during their tumultuous three-year relationship, which lasted from October 1, 2022, until September 30, 2023.
From her statement read in court, it became evident just how deep the emotional scars left by Bull's behavior ran. "The way Bull treated me, stripped me down to be able to be moulded into the person he could intimidate, control and abuse will never leave me," the victim expressed poignantly. Her words highlighted the lasting impact of emotional and psychological manipulation often inflicted by abusers.
Despite these experiences, the victim shared a message of recovery and hope: "Since leaving the relationship, I have been happier, feeling like I am free. I don't have to give explanations to anyone about where I am going or what I am doing. I can do things of my own accord." It is a powerful testament to the strength it takes to break free from such a traumatic situation.
Support for victims like her remains a priority for law enforcement. Police Constable Emily Marsh of Wiltshire Police emphasized the commitment of the police to protect victims of domestic violence, stating, "Bull and any other vile domestic abusers will not be tolerated by Wiltshire Police. Protecting victims of this sort of crime is our utmost priority and we are dedicated to holding perpetrators accountable for their actions."
Marsh further added, "I would like to commend the victim for her unwavering bravery throughout the investigation." Her support indicates a broader commitment within the police force to confront domestic violence and provide strong advocacy for victims.
After her ordeal, the victim reflected on her transformation, noting the warmth and support she now receives from friends and family, contrasting sharply with her previous experiences with Bull: "I look around now at my friends, family and partner and am in disbelief that I am important to them, treated with kindness and patience. They care for me, something Bull claimed to do but in actual fact did the opposite."
The emotional toll of such abuse can be extensive and often leaves victims feeling trapped and isolated. However, the victim in this case has emerged with a renewed sense of self, emphasizing: "I can safely say I am not now the person I was a year ago, trapped and scared in my own home. I can make decisions for myself without being controlled and bullied for someone else’s best interest. Even if that is something as minor as using whatever washing product I like or wearing makeup to feel good."
This case serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating effects of controlling behavior and abuse, but also of resilience and the possibility of moving forward. Support services continue to offer assistance to those struggling in similar situations, urging anyone in distress to reach out for help.
If you or someone you know is suffering from abuse, it is crucial to seek help. Emergency services can be contacted at 999, or for non-emergencies, reach out at 101. Various support organizations are also available for those wishing to change harmful behaviors.
