A terrifying ordeal unfolded in Cardiff as a woman faced the unimaginable at the hands of her violent partner, Aiden Ford, 30. After he attended a police station, tensions flared when his partner mentioned it to his mother, leading to a night of fear and chaos.
Fuelled by alcohol and cocaine, Ford erupted during an argument, aggressively lashing out and strangling his partner. In a desperate bid to escape, she ran to the bathroom to call for help, only for Ford to kick down the door and snatch away her phone. Fearing for her life as he squeezed her neck, she bravely fought back, causing him to release his grip.
The nightmare didn’t end there. Ford shattered household items before the night concluded with police arriving to arrest him, alerted by the victim’s quick-thinking mother. This violent encounter left the victim traumatised, unable to sleep, and battling anxiety.
Ford, already burdened by a lengthy criminal history, pled guilty to intentional strangulation, assault, and criminal damage. He was sentenced to 122 weeks in prison with a seven-year restraining order.
The court heard his struggles with alcoholism, homelessness, and mental health issues. Despite these challenges, Ford expressed a desire to change his life.
If you’re experiencing domestic violence or abuse, remember help is out there. The Live Fear Free helpline offers free, confidential support 24/7. Call 0808 80 10 800, text 0786 007 7333, or email info@livefearfreehelpline.wales. Refuge also offers 24-hour support at 0808 808 9999. You’re not alone; reach out for support today.