A man from Anglesey has been sentenced to four years in prison after subjecting his ex-partner to years of physical and mental abuse. 🚨
Zac Engen, 34, of Maes Garnedd, Tregele, Cemaes, appeared at Caernarfon Crown Court today (Wednesday) where he admitted assault occasioning actual bodily harm, engaging in controlling behaviour and stalking.
The court heard how the relationship had been violent and abusive for many years since 2017. Prosecutor Elen Owen detailed how the abuse included pulling her hair, grabbing her by the throat when she was sleeping, depriving her of sleep, throwing a suitcase at her and repeatedly punching her. He would also threaten self-harm.
The victim had numerous bruises and injuries over the years, which she would try to disguise with make-up. When she ended the relationship in January 2023, Engen continued to harass her with messages, turned up at her workplace, and followed her around Anglesey and as far as Weymouth.
In a victim impact statement, she told how the abuse made her feel “worthless”. She also “felt isolated and alone”, suffered from depression and anxiety and felt “humiliated” by him.
Judge Timothy Petts described Engen as a “violent and manipulative man, who has absolutely no respect for women and poses a significant danger to anyone with whom you form a relationship.” The court heard Engen had a history of previous convictions for similar offences against four previous partners dating back to 2007.
Defending, Richard Edwards, said Engen had entered guilty pleas, no longer takes drugs and rarely drinks alcohol. He noted that Engen had suffered from depression and had little support growing up in the care system.
Along with the prison sentence (half of which must be served in custody), Engen was given a 20-year restraining order and must pay a surcharge.
