Key Highlights
- A man was sentenced to 41 months in prison for subjecting his wife to years of physical and emotional abuse.
- The abuse spanned from December 2015 to April 2025, with the defendant committing acts when under the influence of alcohol.
- Judge Timothy Petts handed down an indefinite domestic abuse protection order prohibiting the defendant from entering Llandudno except for specific occasions.
Timeline and Background of the Case
The case against Andrew Stockman, a 54-year-old man from Llay Place Avenue in Llay, North Wales, unfolded after he pleaded guilty to engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour towards his estranged wife, Sandra Stockman. The prosecution detailed that their marriage began over three decades ago with two adult children together. However, the defendant’s abusive behavior intensified significantly.
The offending started in December 2015 when the relevant legislation came into effect, marking a new chapter of abuse for Sandra Stockman.
Over the years, Andrew Stockman subjected his wife to physical and emotional torture, including kicking, punching, strangle attempts, and multiple black eyes. He also engaged in verbal abuse, destroyed property, threatened self-harm, and even used threats involving weapons.
Details of the Abuse
The court heard several instances of abuse, one particularly notable incident during their Christmas holiday to Spain in 2024. When Sandra Stockman attempted to arrange a return flight home to visit an ill acquaintance, her husband barred her from leaving, threw her out of their apartment, and left her stranded in Benidorm without access to her passport.
For over four years, the couple operated a B&B together, during which the physical abuse subsided but emotional manipulation continued. The defendant’s alcoholism exacerbated his abusive tendencies, leading him to control Sandra through verbal insults and threats of harm to both himself and others.
In one harrowing account, Sandra was held at knifepoint in her own home.
Andrew Stockman’s defense lawyer, Jemma Gordon, acknowledged the severity of the abuse but noted that alcohol had been a significant factor in his client’s behavior. She stated that he recognized the need for psychiatric and mental health treatment to address his excessive drinking, which had worsened over time. The court was informed that since his remand in custody, Stockman expressed a desire to change and rebuild his relationship with his sons.
Judgment and Sentencing
Judge Timothy Petts addressed the gravity of Andrew Stockman’s actions during sentencing, emphasizing the long-term impact on Sandra Stockman. The judge noted that the abuse had severely impacted her life, making it difficult for her to leave despite repeated attempts.
In his ruling, Judge Petts outlined a 41-month custodial sentence and an indefinite domestic abuse protection order. This order prohibits Stockman from entering Llandudno, except for specific occasions related to visiting the Great Orme where his parents’ ashes are scattered. The judge highlighted that the protection order was meant to safeguard Sandra Stockman from any further harm.
The defense lawyer expressed hope that this sentence would serve as a turning point for Stockman, allowing him to address his offending behavior and potentially rebuild relationships with his family.
Conclusion
This case underscores the devastating impact of domestic abuse, which can persist for years before facing legal consequences. The indefinite protection order issued by Judge Petts reflects a commitment to ensuring the safety of victims like Sandra Stockman. As the community continues to grapple with issues of domestic violence, cases such as this serve as important reminders of the need for vigilance and support systems in place.
