KARL DRAPER'S BRUTAL DOMESTIC ABUSE IN KIRKBY LEAVES VICTIM AND PUPPY SHOCKED

Karl Anthony Draper, born around the year 2000 and residing on Jade Close in Kirkby, Liverpool, has been convicted of a disturbing pattern of domestic violence that extended over several years. The case revealed a series of violent and abusive acts directed not only at his former partner, Bekah Smith, but also at her innocent French bulldog puppy, Angel.

According to court reports, Draper’s abusive behavior began on April 15, 2021, when he violently kicked the puppy, which they had only recently acquired. The kick caused Angel to yelp in pain, marking the start of a series of troubling incidents involving the young dog. Draper, who was known to be a heavy cannabis user, frequently took out his frustrations on Angel, subjecting the puppy to repeated acts of violence and cruelty.

Bekah Smith endured a tumultuous relationship with Draper for approximately three years until their separation in September 2023. During this period, she confided in police that Draper had subjected her to both verbal and physical abuse. Despite her efforts to justify his behavior initially, she later gathered evidence in the form of photographs and recordings that documented his numerous assaults. Prosecutor Cheryl Mottram highlighted that Ms Smith had previously made excuses for Draper’s conduct and stayed with him because she loved him, but her efforts to protect herself and her pet were ultimately insufficient.

Throughout their relationship, Draper’s violence escalated. He made repeated threats of self-harm, which served to emotionally blackmail Ms Smith into maintaining the relationship. His physical assaults included throttling and other forms of violence, even during her pregnancy and after the birth of their child. One chilling voice recording captured Draper telling Ms Smith that she would “end up in the morgue,” a statement that underscored the severity of his threats.

In addition to his violence towards his partner and the puppy, Draper also caused property damage, including destroying a child's games console during one of his violent rages. When confronted by police, Draper denied the allegations, claiming that Ms Smith’s injuries, including marks around her throat, were either allergic reactions or makeup, dismissing the evidence against him.

Ultimately, Draper admitted to engaging in controlling and coercive behavior, as well as five counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Notably, he was not charged with animal cruelty despite the evident abuse towards Angel. His defense argued that he suffers from mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and self-harm tendencies.

Judge Andrew Menary KC, the Honorary Recorder of Liverpool, delivered the sentence, emphasizing the seriousness of Draper’s actions. He stated, “People who use this type of abuse, of putting their hands around the throat, are committing serious offences, and that type of behaviour will always be regarded by the court as a real warning sign – a red flag that something more serious might happen in the future. Anyone who puts their hands around somebody else’s throat and squeezes is to be regarded as a high risk.”

The judge further acknowledged the profound psychological harm inflicted on Ms Smith, noting that Draper’s conduct revealed a sinister side that was hidden from the public. Despite his mental health struggles and immaturity, the court found that immediate imprisonment was the only appropriate response to the gravity of his actions. Draper was sentenced to two years in prison and was subject to a five-year restraining order to protect Ms Smith from further contact.

This case underscores the dangers of domestic abuse and the importance of recognizing early warning signs, especially when violence extends to vulnerable animals and involves threats of harm. The community of Kirkby is reminded of the devastating impact such behavior can have on victims and their loved ones.