Increased Sentencing for Domestic Violence Offender
Aiden Ford, a 40-year-old resident of Hanham, Bristol, has had his previously suspended sentence of three years elevated to an immediate term of four years and three months in prison. This decision was made after the Attorney General, Ellie Reeves KC MP, referred his case to the Court of Appeal as part of the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.
The court was informed that Ford entered into a relationship with the victim in September 2024. Over a span from February to August 2025, he subjected her to a relentless series of violent assaults and exhibited coercive and controlling behaviour. His actions included confining her within his home, issuing life-threatening threats, and persistently contacting her after she attempted to end their relationship.
Details of the Abuse
In a particularly harrowing incident, Ford forced the victim into his vehicle and drove her to a remote location, where he restrained her in the passenger seat. During this attack, the victim experienced genuine fear for her life as Ford assaulted her violently and attempted to suffocate her using his forearm.
Following the victim’s report of the abuse, Ford continued to exert pressure, ultimately convincing her to retract her statements to the police. This ongoing manipulation further exemplified the extent of his coercive control.
Attorney General’s Statement
Ellie Reeves KC MP expressed her condemnation of Ford’s actions, stating, “Aiden Ford subjected his victim to a sustained and terrifying campaign of violence and coercive control, leaving her genuinely fearing for her life.” She emphasised that there is no justification for domestic abuse and highlighted the importance of addressing violence against women and girls as a top priority. Reeves welcomed the Court of Appeal’s decision to overturn Ford’s suspended sentence and impose a stricter punishment.
Initial Sentencing and Appeal Outcome
On 11 June 2026, Ford was initially sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court to three years’ imprisonment, suspended for three years, after being convicted of one count each of controlling and coercive behaviour, suffocation, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and perverting the course of justice. However, following the appeal on 20 October 2026, the Court of Appeal revised his sentence, resulting in the increased term of four years and three months’ imprisonment.