MARK WILLIAMS OF TIVERTON SENTENCED AFTER BRUTAL ATTACK ON PET AND PARTNER

In a disturbing incident that has shocked the community of Tiverton, Mark Williams, born on July 13, 1985, and residing at The Deanes, Tiverton EX16 5GT, was convicted in 2024 for a violent assault that involved both his partner and her small pet dog. The assault, which took place on March 31, 2023, in the couple’s shared home, was fueled by alcohol and intense emotional turmoil, leading to a series of aggressive acts that left a lasting impact on those involved.

According to Nigel Wraith, the prosecuting attorney, Williams had been involved in a tumultuous on-and-off relationship with the woman for some time. On the day of the incident, she was staying at his residence when a heated argument erupted shortly after Williams returned home intoxicated. The situation quickly escalated from verbal disputes to physical violence, with Williams displaying a volatile temper that culminated in a series of brutal acts.

During the confrontation, Williams became visibly jealous and angry. He threw her mobile phone against a wall, shattered his television in a fit of rage, and at one point, placed his hand around her throat, obstructing her airway and causing her to gasp for breath. The violence did not stop there. In a particularly heinous act, Williams kicked her tiny teacup chihuahua, named Smoothie, severely injuring the animal. He then proceeded to pick up the dog and violently threw her across the room, into the kitchen area where she struck the oven door and was heard yelping in pain.

Witnesses and the victim herself estimated that Williams threw the dog a distance equivalent to three small cars parked end to end. The injuries sustained by Smoothie included damage to her jaw and hips, highlighting the severity of the attack. The incident was witnessed by a four-year-old boy present in the home, adding a further layer of concern regarding the environment in which the violence occurred.

Williams later admitted to charges of intentional strangulation and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. His lawyer, Evie Dean, stated that her client was actively addressing issues related to alcohol abuse and mental health, indicating an attempt at rehabilitation and acknowledgment of his problematic behavior.

In sentencing, Williams was given a 14-month jail term, which was suspended for two years. Additionally, he was ordered to wear an alcohol abstinence tag for 120 days, complete a relationship course, and perform 120 hours of unpaid community service. Notably, no ban was imposed on him, allowing him to retain certain freedoms despite the severity of his actions.

This case has brought to light the dangers of alcohol-fueled violence and the importance of addressing mental health issues before they escalate into harm for both humans and animals. The community of Tiverton now reflects on the need for vigilance and support systems to prevent such tragic incidents from recurring.