A Leeds woman has bravely spoken out in court after suffering extreme physical and psychological abuse from Nathan Russell, who has now been jailed for 12 years.
A survivor confronts her abuser
A woman who endured an appalling pattern of domestic abuse has addressed the man who terrorised her, delivering a powerful and emotional statement at Leeds Crown Court.
In her moving victim personal statement, she told him:
“Being the person that I am I will never be able to understand how another human being could intentionally physically and mentally torture another the way that you did… I’m glad I can’t understand that because I believe the ability to justify the behaviours you showed are what make you so extremely dangerous.”
She described how, before meeting him, she had a full social life, confidence and freedom — all of which he slowly and deliberately stripped away.
“One of the reasons I’m here today… is because you need to be held accountable for your disgusting actions. No woman on this earth should ever experience any type of abuse… Violence against women needs to stop.”
Nathan Russell jailed for coercive control and sexual assault
Nathan Russell, 32, of Scott Hall Road, Leeds, was found guilty of controlling and coercive behaviour and sexual assault following a three-week trial. He was found not guilty of several other charges.
At his sentencing on 24 November, he received 12 years’ imprisonment and was placed on the Sex Offender Register indefinitely.
Details of horrific abuse revealed in court
Police launched an investigation after the victim bravely disclosed her ordeal to a family member.
The court heard deeply disturbing details of Russell’s sustained violence, including:
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burning her
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covering her in food
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urinating on her
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forcing her to lick the toilet bowl
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spitting at her
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tying her to chairs and tables
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hitting her, including with a metal paddle
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forcing her to eat from the floor
The judge commended the woman for her extraordinary courage in coming forward.
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