A 19-year-old man was sentenced to 15 months in a young offenders institute after a series of violent attacks on his girlfriend, which included the brutal killing of her cat. The incidents occurred in Cardiff, with the most severe actions taking place between May and July 2023.
During a sentencing hearing at Newport Crown Court on July 10, 2023, it was revealed that Steven Cornish attacked the cat while his girlfriend was asleep. The victim was awakened by the sound of Cornish violently slamming the cat against the floor and walls. He subsequently punched the animal multiple times, leading to its death. Following this act, he forced his girlfriend to clean up the scene and threatened her if she contacted the authorities.
In a separate incident in June, while under the influence of drugs, Cornish became incoherent and brandished a kitchen knife, which he used to stab his girlfriend in the leg, resulting in a one-inch laceration. Prosecutor Dan Jones stated that this moment seemed to “bring Cornish to his senses,” prompting him to apologize and assist the victim to the bathroom.
The violence escalated further in mid-July. Cornish assaulted his girlfriend multiple times, using a television remote to hit her over the head and dragging her across the floor. He verbally abused her, calling her “worthless and angry.” In the final incident on July 16, he struck her with a metal mop pole, causing additional injuries including bruising and scratches.
Police were summoned to the scene and described the victim as “petrified.” Following these events, Cornish pleaded guilty to several charges, including causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and causing grievous bodily harm. The court noted that he had no previous convictions, although he had received a caution for battery and shoplifting.
In his defense, Cornish’s attorney, David Pinnell, highlighted developmental issues stemming from his upbringing, adding that his cannabis use contributed to his behavior. Since being remanded in custody, Cornish has claimed to be drug-free and has expressed a desire to seek employment while in prison.
The case sheds light on the serious implications of domestic violence and animal cruelty, as well as the potential connections between substance abuse and aggressive behavior. The court emphasized the need for accountability and the protection of victims in such circumstances.
