Woman jailed for abusing husband who feared he’d ‘end up dead’

A Chester woman has been sentenced to 27 months in prison after subjecting her husband to years of controlling and violent abuse that left him fearing for his life. 😔

Cara Smith, 47, of Dog Lane, Kelsall, admitted engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour between January 2018 and March 2025, along with two charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm at Mold Crown Court.

The court heard how Smith punched, kicked and scratched her husband, called him abusive names, and even stubbed a cigarette out on his chest. She would keep him awake at night by digging her arms and legs into his back, despite him having undergone extensive spinal surgery.

The victim documented the abuse with photographs and was isolated from his family. Smith damaged their home and possessions and took his phone away from him.

Prosecutor Laura Knightly told the court the relationship had been going well since 2009 until Smith’s behaviour changed in 2018, with her drinking being a contributing factor.

In February this year, following an argument, Smith threw a fireplace companion set at her husband’s head. When police arrived, he broke down crying and told officers: “I will end up dead.”

The victim created a “panic room” to escape the abuse, and even sent video footage to his sister-in-law showing Smith trying to break down the door.

Defence barrister Elan Owen said Smith had experienced anxiety and depression during the “toxic” relationship and had endured childhood problems, with drinking changing her personality.

Recorder Anna Price said: “This was a campaign of controlling behaviour and violence towards your husband over a period of several years. You were able to carry on a normal life and behave properly with family and friends, you were able to work and carry on a career. Yet when she was with her husband, you behaved in a violent and controlling manner.”

Smith was also given a 10-year restraining order preventing her from contacting the victim. ⚖️