AARON WRIGHT FROM KELTY SENTENCED FOR BRUTAL ATTACK IN DUNFERMLINE

In a disturbing case that unfolded in Dunfermline, a man from Kelty named Aaron Wright, aged 33, was convicted of a violent assault against his former partner that left her severely injured and unconscious. The incident took place over two days, January 10 and 11, at an address in Dunfermline, and has since resulted in a significant prison sentence and a lifetime ban from contacting the victim.

According to court proceedings, Wright subjected his ex-partner to a harrowing ordeal characterized by relentless violence and intimidation. The Dunfermline Sheriff Court heard that Wright’s actions included repeated physical assaults, threats with a weapon, and attempts to prevent her from seeking help. The assault was described as both severe and domestic in nature, with the victim suffering injuries that required medical attention.

During the hearing, it was revealed that Wright repeatedly punched the woman on her head, grabbed her by the throat, and covered her mouth and nose to prevent her from breathing or calling for assistance. He pursued her through the residence, forcibly removing a bathroom door from its hinges after she tried to lock herself in for safety. Wright also claimed to have weapons, which added to the threat level of his actions.

The most alarming part of the attack involved Wright holding a knife against his victim’s neck, dragging her along the floor while she was restrained, and pinning her down. He continued to assault her by punching her repeatedly in the head, which ultimately caused her to lose consciousness. Throughout the ordeal, he also made several attempts to seize her mobile phone, aiming to prevent her from contacting emergency services or others for help.

The incident was classified as a domestically-aggravated offence, and a victim impact statement was submitted to the court, highlighting the trauma inflicted upon her. Sheriff Krista Johnston described the assault as being at the “very high end” of culpability and harm, emphasizing the terrifying nature of the attack. She noted that Wright’s actions involved sustained violence, the use of a weapon, and resulted in severe injury and unconsciousness. The sheriff also pointed out that alcohol consumption appeared to have played a role in escalating the violence, and she expressed concern over a social work report that suggested some victim-blaming attitudes.

In sentencing, Sheriff Johnston acknowledged mitigating factors, including Wright’s mental health issues and his acknowledgment of the severity of his actions. However, she concluded that a community-based sentence was inappropriate given the gravity of the offence. Consequently, Wright was sentenced to two years in prison and was also issued a lifelong ban from contacting or approaching his victim.

During the hearing, Wright’s defence lawyer, Yvonne McKenna, emphasized that both parties had been drinking at the time and that her client was dealing with mental health challenges. She described the incident as an emotional outburst and acknowledged that Wright’s behaviour was entirely unacceptable and traumatic for his ex-partner. Ms McKenna clarified that there was no record of previous domestic incidents involving the victim and highlighted Wright’s genuine remorse, as evidenced by his voluntary engagement with social services and his efforts to seek medical and psychological help, including cognitive behavioural therapy.

This case underscores the serious consequences of domestic violence and the importance of holding offenders accountable for their actions, especially when weapons and repeated violence are involved.