A WOMAN has been jailed for launching a "wicked and cruel" campaign of violent abuse against her husband.

Throughout their marriage, Glenys Downie subjected her husband to violent assaults and controlling behaviour before he was able to bravely report the abuse to police in September 2021.

The 65-year-old committed the offences in Swanwick.

She would regularly assault her husband when she lost her temper, including kicking and punching him, pulling his hair and hitting him with an umbrella.

The court heard how Downie threatened her husband with a knife and taunted him for being fearful of her behaviour.

Her victim described Downie as a manipulative bully, and said he was reluctant to ever go against her wishes as this made life easier for him.

She denied the offence, and the case went to trial on August 8 this year at Portsmouth Crown Court.

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On August 15, following almost three hours of deliberation, the jury found Downie guilty.

Appearing at the same court on Friday, Downie was jailed for two years.

Police Staff Investigator Laura Cummins, who led the investigation said: “This was a cruel and wicked campaign carried out by Glenys Downie.

“Domestic abuse is a very complex crime type to investigate, with much of the offending happening behind closed doors, and with victims being controlled, manipulated and coerced into complying with demands, making it even more difficult for individuals to report to police.

“The victim in this case is an incredibly strong individual, particularly in light of what he has been through, and he should be commended for his bravery.

“No person should ever be treated in this shocking manner, not least by someone they love and share a life with.

“I hope the outcome of this case reassures others out there who are suffering in silence that this abuse can be stopped.

“Police will do everything to support victims who have been affected, whether male or female. We know that abuse perpetrated against male victims is often under-reported so we encourage anyone affected to please contact us.”

Downie, now of Durns Road, Wotton-Under-Edge, Gloucestershire, was handed an indefinite restraining order.

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