The trial revealed a disturbing pattern of violence and psychological abuse against two women.
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In a shocking case that has drawn attention to the issue of domestic violence, Ryan Calvert, a 36-year-old DJ from Aberdeen, has been found guilty of a series of abusive acts against two women over a nine-year period.
The trial, held at Aberdeen Sheriff Court, revealed a disturbing pattern of behavior that included physical violence, psychological manipulation, and threats that left his victims in fear for their lives.
Details of the abuse
The court heard harrowing testimonies from the victims, who described how Calvert’s violent outbursts would leave them feeling terrified.
One victim recounted moments when Calvert would transition from calm to enraged in an instant, making her acutely aware of the impending violence. She described instances where he pushed her down stairs, strangled her until she lost consciousness, and even placed a tracking device on her phone to monitor her movements.
Another victim shared her experience of being driven to remote locations and abandoned without any means of contacting help. These accounts paint a picture of a man who wielded power and control over his partners, using intimidation and violence as tools to maintain dominance.
Calvert’s defense and the jury’s verdict
Throughout the trial, Calvert denied the allegations, claiming that his partner’s panic attacks were responsible for her fainting spells. His defense attorney argued that the accusations were fabricated, suggesting that the women were lying about their experiences. However, the jury, after five hours of deliberation, delivered eleven guilty verdicts, including a charge of assault that endangered one victim’s life.
Fiscal depute David Rogers urged the jury to recognize the severity of Calvert’s actions, highlighting a chilling threat he made to one of the women: “That’s what happens to pieces of s**t like you.” This statement, along with the testimonies of the victims, painted a clear picture of a man who had inflicted a campaign of terror on those he claimed to love.
The impact of domestic abuse
The ramifications of Calvert’s actions extend beyond the courtroom. Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue that affects countless individuals, often leaving lasting emotional and psychological scars. The victims in this case exemplify the struggles many face when trying to escape abusive relationships. Their courage in coming forward serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing domestic violence and supporting those affected.
As the court prepares to issue a sentence, which could include a custodial term, the focus remains on the need for systemic change to protect victims and hold abusers accountable. The case of Ryan Calvert underscores the urgent need for society to confront the realities of domestic abuse and work towards creating a safer environment for all.
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