A shocking incident unfolded in Swansea, as Lee Bromfield, 38, attempted to set his former family home ablaze! Under the influence of alcohol after consuming a staggering three bottles of vodka and a bottle of wine, Bromfield poured petrol over the house, garden, and hot tub before attempting to ignite it with a lighter. Luckily, his attempts were unsuccessful.
The situation spiralled further when Bromfield headbutted his ex-partner, leaving her with a black eye as she tried to calm him down. The terrifying ordeal saw the woman fleeing to safety with her son. When police arrived, Bromfield, reeking of alcohol, openly admitted to driving under the influence, joking about his intoxication levels.
Earlier in the night, an argument had erupted between Bromfield and the victim. Despite his friend’s involvement with cocaine, the friend was dismissed from the property. Later, Bromfield returned, filled with anger and carrying a jerry can of petrol, threatening catastrophic consequences. Shouting “Watch what I do now,” he tried to set the property on fire.
The court heard from the victim, who expressed her deep trauma from the harrowing night, saying she never imagined someone she once loved could cause such harm. The prosecution dropped the most severe charge of attempted arson but Bromfield still faced the music for affray, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and drink-driving.
With previous convictions and a troubled past with cocaine, Bromfield’s actions were deemed out of character but deeply regrettable. He received a total suspended sentence of 15 months in prison, along with various rehabilitation programmes and a driving ban. A restraining order now keeps him away from his ex for five years.
If you or someone you know faces domestic abuse, help is available. The Live Fear Free helpline offers 24/7 support at 0808 8010 800. Stay safe and reach out.