Barnham Man Admits Violent Assault And Coercive Control Over Young Woman

Friday, 24 November 2023 15:00

A man from Barnham who controlled and abused a young woman has been convicted at court.

Callum Walsh, 29, formerly of Warren Road in Barnham, Arun, first met his victim – a woman in her 20s – in December, 2022.

Over the next few weeks Walsh subjected her to paranoid, coercive and threatening behaviour, attempting to control where she went and who she saw.

Where he perceived her to have fallen out of his control, he would violently assault her.

In the early hours of January 14, Walsh carried out a final, prolonged assault on his victim, who was able to escape her property and call the police.

He was subsequently arrested in Cornwall and charged with non-fatal strangulation, causing actual bodily harm and engaging in coercive/controlling behaviour and remanded in custody.

At Lewes Crown Court on Wednesday, November 8, Walsh pleaded guilty to non-fatal strangulation at the commencement of the trial. Charges of actual bodily harm and coercive/controlling behaviour will remain on file.

Walsh is due to be sentenced at a court to be confirmed on December 22.

Detective Constable Angela De Vivo said:

“Victims of violent, controlling men like Callum Walsh do not have to suffer in silence.

“His victim in this instance was left terrified, but has shown incredible bravery in reporting and supporting the investigation.

“We were able to protect her from any further harm and Walsh has now been brought to justice, remanded in custody where he can cause no harm to other women.

“If you or someone you know is in an abusive or controlling relationship, please report it to police online, via 101 or by dialling 999 in an emergency.

“We have a range of discreet methods of reporting and accessing support without your abuser finding out. For more information visit Advice about domestic abuse | Sussex Police”