A shocking case has unfolded involving Dimitri Prassinos, director of Gaucho, a high-end steakhouse. Prassinos, 41, has been jailed for a harrowing attack on his ex-partner, Lydia Itiokiet, leaving her fearing for her life. He turned up at Lydia’s home drunk, demanding to see his children, and when refused, lashed out physically. Lydia was left with serious injuries after being struck and strangled to the point of blacking out.
The disturbing details emerged in court, revealing that Lydia’s children witnessed their mother’s ordeal, with her daughter telling school that ‘daddy made mummy look like a monster’. The incident, just before Christmas, left Lydia bruised and unable to leave her home due to her injuries.
Prassinos shockingly retains his position at the Gaucho restaurant, despite his convictions. Throughout the court proceedings, he appeared subdued and remorseful, but the impact on Lydia’s life remains severe. She now struggles with PTSD symptoms and has been forced to leave Liverpool, seeking a fresh start.
Lydia’s victim statement highlights the continuous trauma she faces, unable to work and living in constant fear. Prassinos, who pleaded guilty to strangulation and assault, was sentenced to three years in prison, with a restraining order protecting Lydia and her son for seven years.
This heartbreaking case underscores the lasting impact of domestic violence and the strength required to rebuild lives torn apart by abuse. The courtroom was filled with emotion as family members from both sides attended, some in tears as Prassinos faced his sentence.
Our thoughts are with Lydia and her family as they navigate life after such a traumatic event. Let this serve as a reminder of the importance of supporting victims and raising awareness about domestic violence. #JusticeForLydia #EndDomesticViolence