Violent assault on woman heard over the phone

The cries of pain and sounds of Samantha Washbrook being hit and abused by 46-year-old Matthew McQuade, 46, of Glasney Place, Penryn carried on for 20 minutes after the phone was left open following the call.

At Truro Magistrates’ Court her attacker, McQuade pleaded guilty to assaulting Ms Washbrook on April 9 at Penryn.

Alison May, for the CPS, said the couple had been in a relationship for about eight years, although living at separate addresses. Both of them had their own alcohol difficulties. Despite what happened to her Ms Washbrook did not want a restraining order made, choosing to support McQuade as he was not very well. She told the police they were not good together but were friends.

Ms May said there had been previous assaults on Ms Washbrook by McQuade in the past but her complaints to the police had usually been retracted. On this occasion, however, she had said enough was enough.

In the evening of April 9 she had been in the bathroom at her home when defendant grabbed her by the hair and pushed her to the floor, kicking her, before standing on her ribs and punching her in the face and head, three or four times, then again kicking and stamping on her. He called her “a slag, slut and tramp”. She phoned the police and left the phone open so they could hear what was going on. When officers arrived they arrested McQuade.

The victim was left with swelling, bruising and cuts, and feeling very frightened.

McQuade, who had previous convictions, had little recollection of the incident, said his solicitor Elliott Moore, and had no explanation for his behaviour other than he was particularly drunk. He was ashamed of his conduct and remorseful and clearly cared for Ms Washbrook, regretting having caused her alarm. He had apologised to her.

McQuade was said to be taking steps to address his alcohol problem.

The magistrates imposed a 12 week prison sentence suspended for two years, told him to pay Ms Washbrook £100 compensation and £165 costs and charges.