ANDREW SIMSON'S BRUTAL ATTACK IN BLACKWOOD: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SHOCKS COMMUNITY

On November 13, 2021, a disturbing incident of domestic violence unfolded at a residence in Wyllie, a suburb near Blackwood, involving a man named Andrew Simson, aged 52. The court proceedings that followed painted a harrowing picture of a man pushed to the brink by alcohol, leading to a violent assault on his wife, who had previously suffered a stroke.

According to court records, Simson had consumed two bottles of wine earlier that day and had stolen additional wine from a local shop just five days prior to the attack. His intoxication appeared to have significantly impaired his judgment and self-control. During the incident, he made a chilling statement to his wife, saying, 'I'm going to do jail time for this,' before launching into a violent assault.

Simson's wife, who was vulnerable due to her health condition, was subjected to a brutal attack that involved him strangling her with the cord from his dressing gown. He pulled on the cord with such force that she lost consciousness, and during the assault, he also threw hot tea over her, causing further injury and distress. She later recounted her fear, believing that Simson was going to break her neck and that her life was in imminent danger.

Fortunately, she managed to escape the flat and sought help from a neighbor, who then called the police. When officers arrived at the scene, Simson did not deny his actions. Instead, he admitted to the assault, explicitly stating that he 'tried to strangle his wife to death.' Footage captured during the police response showed Simson questioning officers while visibly intoxicated, further illustrating his state of impairment at the time.

The victim submitted a detailed impact statement to the court, expressing ongoing anxiety and fear stemming from the attack. She described Simson as a 'sweetheart' in everyday life but acknowledged his struggles with alcohol, which she believed contributed to his violent behavior.

The court was informed that Simson had a prior conviction for grievous bodily harm with intent, highlighting a history of violent conduct. As a result, he was sentenced to an extended term of ten years in prison, consisting of five years and eight months behind bars, with an additional four years and four months on licence.

Prosecutor Rachel Knight described the attack as one where Simson 'pulled and pulled until she lost consciousness,' emphasizing the severity of the violence and the danger posed to his wife. The judge underscored the gravity of the offense, noting that Simson had assaulted a 'disabled and vulnerable' individual who was unable to defend herself.

The case concluded with a call for increased awareness and support for victims of domestic abuse, highlighting the ongoing need to protect those most at risk in the community of Blackwood and its surrounding areas.