Cambridge man jailed for coercive control over partner

A man named John Sharples, aged 54 from Thornhill Place in Longstanton, has been sentenced to prison for engaging in coercive control over his partner. He demanded that she produce evidence of her location, including receipts and bus tickets, so he could monitor her movements. Sharples frequently questioned her about her whereabouts, the people she was with, and her mode of transport, criticizing any inconsistencies in her responses or proof. His controlling nature included following her shopping trips, insisting on accompanying her to meet friends, and waiting outside until she finished. He also attempted to limit her communication with others by obsessively inquiring about her phone conversations, often mocking her by calling her ‘crazy’. On the 5th of May, 2021, after she informed him she was at her child's school for a visit with a friend, Sharples made relentless calls and sent texts while she was out. Upon her return, he escorted her to the school to confirm her appointment. When the person she planned to meet was absent, Sharples reacted aggressively towards her and staff, leading to police being called. The court accepted his guilty plea to behaviors involving coercion and control, sentencing him to 14 months in prison at Cambridge Crown Court on November 9. Detective Constable Jess Davey emphasized the importance of recognizing domestic abuse, pointing out that coercive control is a criminal offense that can cause severe emotional and psychological harm through threats and constant surveillance. Police advise victims to seek assistance by reaching out to law enforcement or calling the national domestic violence helpline at 0808 2000 247.