Gareth Moreton-Jenkins (Image: Gwent Police)
Last Updated: 2 minutes ago
A man from Cwmbran has been given an extended sentence totalling 10 years and six months after a jury convicted him of wounding with intent at Newport Crown Court.
Gareth Moreton-Jenkins, 42, carried out what was described in court as a “barbaric” assault on his then partner at her home in November last year. The alcohol and cocaine-fuelled attack left the woman with broken ribs, a lacerated liver and extensive swelling across her body. She spent 22 days in hospital.
Moreton-Jenkins, who stands 6ft 5in and weighs 17 stone, has a history of violent offending including a previous domestic violence conviction involving a different former partner.
Victim’s words
The victim’s impact statement was read to the court by prosecutor Nuhu Gobir.
“In a jealous rage, he stamped on my head and my stomach. He is 6ft 5in, 17 stone and has size 14 shoes and I’m 5ft 1in and about nine-and-a-half stone.”
“I spent 22 days in hospital after suffering broken ribs, a lacerated liver and swelling all over my body.”
“I was near death’s door – the outcome could so easily have been fatal.”
She described the assault as leaving her “with a complete lack of dignity.”
“He has shown zero remorse for what he has done and he assassinated my character in the courtroom during the trial. He treated me like dirt when I was nothing but good to him.”
Defence arguments
Tabitha Walker, representing Moreton-Jenkins, said her client wished to express remorse.
“He wants to express his genuine remorse to his victim. The defendant wishes for nothing but the best for her.”
Walker told the court her client had substance abuse issues and intended to relocate to Cornwall upon his release, where employment had been arranged.
Sentencing
Judge Matthew Porter-Bryant addressed the defendant directly.
“You were found guilty of a nasty and prolonged assault.”
Moreton-Jenkins received an extended sentence of 10 years and six months. The custodial element amounts to eight years and six months, of which he must serve two-thirds before becoming eligible for release. An additional licence period of two years and six months will follow.
A 20-year restraining order was imposed prohibiting any contact with the victim.
Police response
Detective Constable Lauren Smith, the officer in the case, said:
“I’d like to thank the victim for her strength and support throughout the investigation and court process. Her resolve has ensured that a violent man is rightly behind bars.”
“Nobody should have to endure the threat of violence or acts of violence from anyone, let alone from their own partner. I hope that the sentence demonstrates that reports of domestic violence are taken seriously and will be investigated thoroughly and with compassion.”
