Wiltshire Mum Speaks Out After Daughter Survives Horrific Attempted Murder
The mother of a domestic abuse victim has spoken out, desperate to stop anyone else suffering the same nightmare. Edward Rudd, 37, was locked up for 11 and a half years after trying to kill his partner Cara Bryant in a terrifying attack.
Man Jailed for Attempted Murder After Brutal Abuse
Cara faced months of horrific physical and psychological abuse during their five-month relationship. The nightmare peaked when Rudd placed a plastic bag over her head in a suffocation attempt — which he disturbingly called a “prank.”
Rudd was convicted at Bristol Crown Court in September 2020 and sentenced to more than a decade behind bars.
Cara’s Heartbreaking Story and Mum’s Fight to Help Others
Tragically, Cara died from unrelated causes shortly after Rudd was charged in December 2019. Her mum, Louise Carr, is now speaking out, backing a police campaign to raise awareness of domestic abuse.
“Edward Rudd is a pathological liar and a very manipulative man,” said Louise. “He had our whole family convinced Cara was the one making up stories. He isolated her from everyone who loved her. By the end, she was completely alone.”
After Rudd’s arrest, Cara stayed with Louise, heartbroken but finally seeing the truth. “I wish I could have done more for her,” said Louise. “His prison sentence isn’t justice. When Cara died, she was deeply unhappy because of that man.”
Louise is urging abuse victims to speak up: “If you’re in a damaging relationship, get help. Don’t suffer in silence.”
Police Praise Courage, Warn Others to Reach Out
Detective Constable Kerry Foster, who led the case, called Rudd a “manipulative and violent” abuser who controlled Cara completely.
“I’m glad Louise is backing the campaign. If her story helps even one person escape abuse, it’s worth it.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson added: “This tragic but real story should encourage others to come forward. We must keep talking about domestic abuse so victims know help is out there.”
Get Help – Don’t Stay Silent
- Call police: 999 in emergency, 101 for non-emergencies
- Splitz (outside Swindon): 01225 775276 or 01793 610610 (after 5pm/weekends)
- Swindon Women’s Aid (24/7): 01793 610610
If you or someone you know is suffering abuse, reach out now. You’re not alone.
