samuel watkins Domestic Abuser in Guildford

Samuel James Watkins, a 35-year-old resident of Guildford in Surrey, appeared before Bournemouth Crown Court to be sentenced on July 10, 2024.

He had previously admitted to charges including intentional strangulation, causing grievous bodily harm, criminal damage, unlawful taking of a vehicle, and driving while disqualified.

The incident occurred between October 20 and October 22, 2023, when Watkins and his victim were staying at the Royal Bath Hotel located on Bath Road.

On the night of October 21 into October 22, they argued, during which Watkins punched his victim multiple times to the head and strangled her on two separate occasions.

The altercation resulted in damage to the hotel room.

Watkins also took the victim’s car keys and drove off from the hotel around 1:45 a.m., despite being disqualified from driving at the time.

Emergency services, including police and ambulance crews, attended the scene.

The victim sustained a skull fracture along with other facial and bodily injuries.

Detective Constable Rhiannon House from BCP CID commented on the case, emphasizing the importance of tackling domestic abuse.

She praised the victim’s bravery, saying it could inspire others to seek help and report abuse, as Dorset Police remain committed to supporting victims and prosecuting offenders.

Watkins was sentenced to nearly four years in prison, specifically three years and eleven months.

The court also placed a six-year restraining order preventing him from contacting the victim.