Former Lifeboatman Kicks Wife on Dream Anniversary Cruise, Gets Suspended Sentence
A former RNLI lifeboatman has been sentenced after kicking his wife "for no reason" during a luxury Mediterranean cruise celebrating their 10th wedding anniversary. Alan Dop, from Pwllheli, assaulted his spouse in August last year, causing significant bruising and swelling, according to prosecutor Elen Owen at Caernarfon Crown Court.
Violent Incidents on Cruise and at Home
The attack occurred while the couple was on a dream cruise, with their seven-year-old son witnessing the disturbing event. Ms Owen detailed that Dop not only kicked his wife but also grabbed her, shook her violently, and threw her across the room, injuring her back. The victim felt particularly isolated and trapped, unable to seek immediate assistance due to their remote location at sea.
In a separate incident weeks later at their home in Gwynedd, the abuse continued. When the victim asked Dop to move to another room to avoid seeing his intoxicated state, he refused. As she attempted to take their child's iPad, Dop demanded it back, pushing her and grabbing her bicep, which resulted in reddening and bruising. He also pressed his forearm against her neck in a threatening manner.
Alcohol Abuse and Legal Consequences
The court heard that Dop's drinking had become a severe problem over the past two years, with his wife describing him as "extremely abusive towards her in drink." After the home assault, the victim managed to escape and contact the police. Officers found Dop nearly five times over the legal drink-drive limit when they breathalysed him.
Dop admitted to assault causing actual bodily harm and assault by beating. Defence barrister Amy Edwards stated that Dop expressed remorse and did not intend to minimise his actions. She highlighted his previous good character, noting his work with the RNLI where he helped others before his alcohol issues escalated.
Sentencing and Restraining Order
Judge Simon Mills sentenced Dop to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years, remarking that he had missed going to jail by a "millimetre." The judge condemned Dop's attempts to blame the victim as "absolutely disgraceful" and described him as having developed an unhealthy relationship with alcohol, effectively becoming an alcoholic.
A Probation Service report indicated Dop was showing symptoms of PTSD from his experiences with the RNLI, which may have contributed to his behaviour. In addition to the suspended sentence, Dop was given a seven-year restraining order to protect the victim, with any contact with their child to be arranged through a third party.
Impact on the Victim and Family
The assaults left the victim deeply traumatised, feeling very upset, isolated, and nauseous with palpitations. She also expressed concern about the psychological impact on their young son, who had heard the abuse. Judge Mills emphasised that this was Dop's "last chance" to reform, warning of severe consequences if he reoffends.
