‘Jekyll and Hyde’ Abuser Sentenced to 16 Years for Paralyzing Girlfriend in Brutal Assault
A controlling and violent abuser, described as a ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ monster, has been jailed for 16 years after leaving his long-term girlfriend paralyzed from the chest down following a brutal assault. Robert Easom, 57, from Lancashire, attacked Trudi Burgess, 57, in a culmination of eight years of coercive and violent behavior, severing her spinal cord during the incident.
Details of the Attack and Deception
On February 17 last year, when Ms Burgess told Easom she was leaving him, he launched a ferocious attack, placing his hands on her head while she was kneeling and pushing down with all his strength. This action caused her spinal cord to be severed, resulting in permanent paralysis from the chest downwards. In a desperate attempt to cover up his crime, Easom called for an ambulance and falsely claimed that Ms Burgess had "fallen out of bed" during an accident.
However, Ms Burgess later bravely revealed the truth at the hospital, removing herself from Easom's malevolent influence. She had documented the years of abuse in the notes section of her phone, detailing both serious physical assaults and what she called "low-level events" that became normalized in a cycle of abuse followed by apologies and affection.
Court Proceedings and Victim Impact
At Preston Crown Court, Easom was convicted by a jury of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He had previously admitted to engaging in coercive and controlling behavior between July 2017 and February 2025, as well as two offences of actual bodily harm. Sentencing him, Judge Robert Altham KC noted that Easom was initially concerned only with himself, bemoaning the potential loss of his business and contact with his sons if he told the truth.
In a powerful victim impact statement read to the court, Ms Burgess described how the crime had robbed her of her health, independence, career, and peace of mind. She stated, "This injury is permanent. I will never get back the life I had. I now live with constant pain, with limitations and heartbreak." She also expressed concern for anyone who might become involved with Easom in the future, highlighting his unpredictable and terrifying personality shifts.
Response from Authorities and Support
Following the sentencing, Alison Wolstenholme of the Crown Prosecution Service praised Ms Burgess's incredible strength, which allowed for the strongest possible case against Easom. Detective Constable Bethanie Kirk from Lancashire Constabulary condemned Easom as a manipulative and cowardly individual with repulsive views towards women, noting that his actions could have easily led to Ms Burgess's death.
Outside the court, Ms Burgess's brother Charlie spoke on her behalf, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about domestic abuse warning signs. He urged others to seek help, stating, "If my voice can help even one woman leave before violence escalates, then something positive will have come from all of this." Support is available through the National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247.
Easom, formerly of Longridge Road, Chipping, must also serve an extended licence period of four years, ensuring he remains under supervision after his release. This case underscores the devastating and permanent consequences of domestic violence, as well as the critical need for vigilance and support in combating such abuse.
