Mercedes Stephens thought she found someone special when she met Robert Dumazel—but it quickly turned into a nightmare. Promising to protect her, Robert instead became her biggest fear. Over their tumultuous eight-month relationship, he isolated, threatened, and assaulted her repeatedly. His jealousy turned violent, causing Mercedes to lose touch with friends and even her job.
Their time together was littered with horrifying incidents: from violent outbursts at the sight of an innocent phone call to trapping her at home and wreaking havoc on her personal belongings. Mercedes bravely shares, “He made me feel like nobody was there for me…like nobody loved me apart from him,” exposing a chilling cycle of manipulation and control.
One particularly terrifying night, Mercedes was chased, trapped, and assaulted as onlookers did nothing. A shocking display of his rage, Robert even celebrated outside Cardiff Crown Court after receiving a suspended sentence for his abuse.
Emerging from the darkness, Mercedes now shares her story to empower other survivors of domestic abuse. Encouraging those who experience similar situations to seek support, she says, “We need to start holding these people accountable.”
Thankfully, since ending the relationship and receiving support, Mercedes is finding happiness again, rebuilding friendships, and reclaiming her independence. “I’m back doing what I love… I have so much motivation and a reason to live now,” she reflects with newfound strength.
If you’re experiencing domestic abuse, reach out to services that can help. Remember, you’re not alone, and there is support available. Let’s work together to call out abuse and support each other towards safer, happier lives.