PERSONAL TRAINER JOEL HOWES CONVICTED OF COERCIVE CONTROL IN GREAT YARMOUTH
A jealous boyfriend named Joel Howes, aged 37, convicted of coercive control over his girlfriend after a two-day trial at Great Yarmouth Magistrates' Court.The court heard that Howes, a personal trainer, imposed controlling behaviors including forcing his girlfriend to pawn her jewelry and cover a tattoo referencing a previous relationship.
He also damaged her clothes, disapproved of her photographs, and monitored her remotely via GPS app Life360.
Prosecutor Mark Jackson stated Howes "oozed jealousy" and had physically assaulted her by punching her in the arm and slapping her in the face, threatening to "knock my f**king teeth out".
Additionally, he instructed her not to drop her children off at her home to avoid her ex-partner and manipulated her social interactions.
The victim's sister testified that her sibling’s behavior changed dramatically after starting the relationship, including wearing a hat, dressing in baggy clothes, and removing family photos.
Howes, who reported that he disliked seeing exes in her content and was insecure about her attire, denied some of these accusations but admitted to feeling uncomfortable with her clothing.
The court found Howes guilty of one count of coercive control, and he is scheduled to be sentenced on August 27.
The case highlights a pattern of controlling and abusive behavior reminiscent of domestic violence cases.
The article includes images of Howes outside court and in his personal training studio, emphasizing the transformation and control exerted by him over his partner.
