Stevenage Man Jailed for Brutal Abuse of Partner
A 40-year-old man from Stevenage has been jailed for four years after terrorising and physically abusing his former partner. Steven Thiara, of Lingfield Road, was convicted at St Albans Crown Court on 7 January for coercive and controlling behaviour and two counts of actual bodily harm.
Horrific Abuse Uncovered by Police
Detective Inspector Sarah Corr from the Domestic Abuse Investigation & Safeguarding Unit described the case as “high risk.” Thiara moved his victim into his home in April last year. On 6 June 2019, police were alerted by Thiara’s father after a disturbance. Officers arriving at the scene were horrified by the victim’s condition.
- Severe facial injuries
- Hair brutally chopped off
- Cuts, scratches, and heavy bruising on her arms
Thiara held her captive for eight weeks, subjecting her to relentless verbal and physical abuse. He repeatedly beat her with a bottle, belt, and TV remote. He forced her to drink his urine and eat food he’d urinated on. He even cut her hair with scissors, declaring he wanted to make her bald.
Survivor Finds Courage Amid Horror
“Thiara tormented, violated, and hurt his victim both physically and emotionally,” DI Corr said. Despite living in terror and an “inhumane existence” for nearly two months, the victim found the strength to expose the nightmare.
She is now receiving support from specially trained officers and slowly rebuilding her life.
Judge Sends Abuser Behind Bars
Thiara will serve a long prison term, ensuring he cannot harm anyone else. DI Corr urged anyone suffering from domestic abuse to seek help. “Your report will be taken seriously and you will be listened to,” she said.
Know Your Rights: Clare’s Law
Thiara was acquitted of false imprisonment and sexual assault charges. Coercive or controlling behaviour covers patterns of controlling, threatening, or abusive acts within intimate relationships, covering psychological, physical, sexual, financial, and emotional abuse.
Clare’s Law allows people to find out if a partner has a violent past. Hertfordshire residents can apply online here.
