“I AM so grateful to Essex Police for their hard work, care, and dedication in helping me reach justice.”

That’s from a woman whose former partner has been put behind bars thanks to work of our specialist domestic abuse detectives.

Thirty-one year-old George Bloxham, formerly of Parker Avenue, Hertford, was jailed for three years and 10 months on Friday (15 August).

The victim, who we are keeping anonymous, has thanked our officers for their work and support, and has encouraged more people to come forward and hopes her story will empower others to stand up to perpetrators.

She said: “I have been shown incredible support, kindness, and respect both from Essex Police and the organisations they connected me to.

“Speaking up was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but it was also the most important. It feels incredible to see a conviction and prison sentence delivered, not only for myself, but also for the previous victims of this man’s crimes.

“I want women and men experiencing abuse to know that they are not alone. It takes one small and brave step to reach out, and you will be supported and cared for every step of the way.

“You are strong, and you have the power to fight back and change your story.”

Bloxham had assaulted the victim at an address in Harlow in April 2022 leaving her with injuries to her face.

He admitted three counts of ABH and was jailed at Chelmsford Crown Court.

Detective Constable Swarv Safin, who led the investigation, said: “I would like to thank the victim in this case for her perseverance, bravery and patience.

“The investigation was complex but very thorough, the sentence imposed on Bloxham is definitely positive one. This was a lengthy process but the result speak for itself.

“I would like to encourage anyone who is a victim of any crime especially domestic violence to contact the police as such behaviour is not accepted in our society and it should be punished.

“If anyone is struggling and needs support before speaking to the police there are agencies to help you, I would encourage anyone that needs that support and empowerment to complete a referral to Essex Compass where Independent Domestic Violence Advisor will support the victims throughout the process.”

You can find out more about Compass on their website: https://www.essexcompass.org.uk/