Burnley man locked up for over two years after horrific controlling abuse of wife
Christopher Taylor, 60, from Burnley, has been sentenced to two years and one month for relentless controlling and coercive behaviour against his wife Tanya between 2016 and 2022.
A Campaign of Abuse
Taylor’s twisted reign of terror included isolating Tanya from friends and family, manipulating her social media, and even masquerading as her online to humiliate and torment her.
- He contacted her friends and associates pretending to be her
- Sent naked pictures of Tanya to male acquaintances
- Messaged their partners to stir up trouble
- Posted fake profiles for Tanya on dating sites
He also pleaded guilty to three counts of possessing offensive weapons during this period.
Tanya’s Torment and Courage
Now 56, Tanya has bravely shared her story to warn others stuck in similar hells.
“I felt there was no escape from constant abuse. Home was where the worst things happened,” she said. “Christopher was supposed to protect and love me but subjected me to unimaginable, frightening behaviour constantly.”
“He made me believe I was always wrong and used violence and threats to control me. I felt isolated and unloved, even fearing he might kill me.”
“Speaking out was terrifying but I knew I had to try for myself and my children’s safety.”
The abuse left Tanya battling depression, anxiety and shame. In September 2022 she reported Taylor to police, showing immense courage despite fearing for her life and her family’s.
Support and Justice
Thanks to dedicated support from Lancashire Police, Victim Support, and domestic violence advocates, Tanya is now healing and rebuilding her life, although she still faces nightmares and panic attacks.
“I feel empowered now. The justice system and police safeguarding have given me confidence and protection,” Tanya said. “I want other victims to know there is hope and light at the end of the tunnel.”
Police Praise and Plea for Other Victims
DC Dave Senior from Lancashire Police’s Safeguarding Unit praised Tanya’s bravery and slammed Taylor’s “extreme coercive behaviour.”
“Christopher Taylor was a high-risk perpetrator who caused immense harm. Tanya’s strength to come forward is incredible,” he said. “She is no longer a victim but a survivor on the road to recovery.”
“We encourage all domestic abuse victims to come forward. Your safety is our priority and we will treat you with respect and kindness. There is help and hope.”
