OLIVER HAISMAN FROM LAUNCESTON JAILED FOR VIOLENT ASSAULT IN CORNWALL

In a case that has shocked the local community, Oliver Haisman, aged 26 and hailing from Launceston, was sentenced to prison following a series of violent incidents involving a teenage girl in Cornwall. The events unfolded over two separate occasions late last year, revealing a disturbing pattern of aggression and control.

Haisman appeared before Truro Crown Court earlier this year to face multiple charges, including intentional strangulation, three counts of assault, possession of cocaine, and failing to provide a breath specimen to police. These offences compounded an existing breach of a suspended sentence previously imposed for wounding, illustrating a troubling history of violent behavior.

Prosecutor Ryan Murray detailed the relationship between Haisman and the teenage victim, noting that their interactions appeared amicable when Haisman was sober. However, the victim observed a darker side emerging when he consumed alcohol, which he confided in her about, revealing a violent past. The two had entered into an intimate relationship, which would soon be marred by serious incidents.

The first assault occurred during a playful fight, which escalated when Haisman strangled the girl and refused to release her despite her pleas. He then forcefully slammed her against a wall, causing her significant distress. The second incident was triggered when the victim expressed her desire to go out alone, an act Haisman opposed due to his traveller heritage. He responded with threats to seriously harm her and physically assaulted her by hitting her in the face with a flip flop.

Following this, the victim managed to persuade Haisman to take her home. However, the violence continued during the car journey, with Haisman screaming in her face, punching her, and shoving her head into the vehicle window. He then stopped the car, turned back, and declared, “you’re not going anywhere.”

Haisman forcibly took the girl back to his caravan, where he persisted in assaulting her, pushing his fist into her face repeatedly. During this ordeal, the girl was able to contact her mother for help. Police later found Haisman behind the wheel of a vehicle, visibly intoxicated, swaying, with glazed eyes. He also admitted to possessing cocaine at the time.

Haisman’s criminal record includes previous convictions for domestic violence, underscoring a pattern of violent and controlling behavior. The court heard that his mental health was a concern, exacerbated by alcohol misuse, but noted that he was taking steps to address his substance abuse while in custody.

In sentencing, Recorder Richard Stead emphasized the seriousness of Haisman’s actions, stating, “You are 26 and have a history of violence offending. You clearly have a controlling personality when it comes to relationships and I note a significant mental health component amplified by your use of alcohol. You are taking steps in custody to try and deal with substance misuse.”

Haisman was sentenced to two years in prison. Additionally, he was banned from driving and a restraining order was issued to protect the victim from further harm, marking a significant legal response to his violent conduct in Cornwall.