26-year-old man jailed for domestic abuse offences following investigation by GMP Stockport

Following an investigation by Greater Manchester Police’s (GMP) Stockport Domestic Abuse Team, Robert Coupe (DOB: 12 December 1996) of South Reddish in Stockport appeared at Minshull Street Crown Court today (28 November 2023) and was jailed for a year and 10 months.

Coupe pleaded guilty to section 20 assault and criminal damage against the victim. The victim also filed for a 10 year restraining order which was granted.

The court heard how Robert Coupe would persistently call the victim up to 30 times a day and would also contact her friends and family if she did not answer.

He also unplugged security cameras from the victim’s address when he found that she wouldn't come home if she could see he was waiting for her.

On 12 August 2023, Coupe harassed the victim in the street and later that evening he attacked her at an address – punching and hitting her, causing serious injuries that required hospital treatment.

He then forced the victim into a bath and burned her clothes in the garden. He then also attempted to clean the address in an attempt to hide the evidence of his attack.

The victim managed to escape when her friend came to the address and took her to hospital.

The victim reported the matter to GMP and Coupe was arrested and subsequently charged with the offences before appearing at court.

PC Elizabeth Andrews of GMP Domestic Abuse Team said: “Firstly, I want to thank the victim for the courage she has shown in coming forward and supporting a prosecution which has resulted in a substantial sentence being handed down to the offender. Her bravery and strength is nothing short of inspiring.

“I welcome the sentence today which reflects the severity of the violent and psychological abuse that Coupe inflicted on the victim. His behaviour was abhorrent and this was an absolutely vile attack.

“He harassed the victim and made her feel unsafe in her own home over a period of months, culminating in an attack that left her in fear for her life and in need of urgent medical treatment.

“Coupe’s crimes are utterly deplorable, and his lack of remorse further presents him as a dangerous man who fully deserves the sentence imposed on in him.

“I hope it sends a message that GMP is determined to arrest and prosecute domestic abuse offenders and I hope it encourages other victims to put their trust in police to investigate. I can assure you that you will be listened to and your account will be taken seriously.”

Support for Domestic Abuse:

If you or someone you know is a victim/survivor of Domestic Abuse, report it to GMP now. We can and will support you, GMP will NOT tolerate any form of abuse.

There are lots of support services that can also provide support for you, please visit the websites listed below to find our more information and support.

SafeLives.org.uk
Providing domestic abuse support and guidance.

National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Free 24-hour helpline, guidance and support for victims.

National Centre for Domestic Violence
Provides a free service that lets anyone who has recently suffered from, or been threatened with, domestic abuse apply for an emergency court injunction.

Victim Support
Free and confidential help to victims of crime, witnesses, their family and friends with 24-hour live chat and helpline available.

Women’s Aid Domestic Violence Helpline
Free 24-hour national helpline run by Women’s Aid and Refuge.