A man identified as Steven Farrell, described as “pathologically jealous,” engaged in a series of abusive acts against his girlfriend, including forcing dog waste into her mouth, strangling her pet, and issuing death threats. The abusive behavior unfolded over the course of their relationship, which commenced shortly after Farrell’s release from incarceration in October 2024, as detailed in Preston Crown Court.
Farrell, who was known to partake in cocaine use, quickly moved into the woman’s residence in Rossendale after meeting her. He exhibited controlling behavior by escorting her to and from work, confiscating and destroying her phone while deceitfully responding to messages from concerned acquaintances.
The victim endured physical abuse, with Farrell resorting to gagging her to stifle her screams during violent episodes. On a particular day, after an argument stemming from the woman declining to accompany Farrell on a shopping trip, he resorted to extreme violence, placing a plastic bag over her head and threatening her life. Following this, he proceeded to strangle her dog with a leash.
Subsequent events included Farrell hurling a hairdryer at the woman, causing injury, and later returning to the residence despite being evicted earlier. A neighbor eventually alerted the authorities after hearing screams, although Farrell coerced her into downplaying the situation to the police.
In a harrowing turn of events, Farrell held a knife to the woman’s throat, forced a bag containing dog feces into her mouth, and physically assaulted her, causing bruising to various body parts. Despite his denial of the accusations, he was apprehended by law enforcement while attempting to flee.
During sentencing, Recorder Michelle Brown condemned Farrell’s actions as manipulative and fear-inducing, highlighting the sustained nature of the assault, which involved threats, physical harm, and degrading acts. Consequently, Farrell received a prison sentence of three years and five months, along with a one-year extended license period aimed at safeguarding the public.
The victim, left traumatized by the ordeal, now grapples with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and recurring distressing memories of the abuse she suffered at Farrell’s hands. She expressed enduring emotional scars and fear for her safety, emphasizing the lasting impact of the traumatic events.