Yesterday, Laura Holyland gave brave testimony in Great Yarmouth Magistrates’ Court in the case against her former husband, Karl, who was found guilty of coercive and controlling behaviour during their marriage and harassment in the subsequent months.
It was the bitter end of a tragic and deeply painful saga which has left many deep wounds and emotional scars.
Following the verdict, rapid coverage from the EDP made it clear that the case might garner some press interest, partly due to a potential landmark ruling using the relatively recent laws from Section 76 of the Serious Crime Act 2015 – Controlling or Coercive Behaviour in an Intimate or Family Relationship.
The case has been passed to Crown Court for sentencing.
Laura made it clear in her testimony that her only wish is to be able to move on with her life and find some semblance of normality after a succession of family tragedies including the death of her teenage son, Michael, and now finally escaping a traumatic and toxic relationship.
She has been through a long and traumatic process which continues to have an adverse impact on her life.
In an effort to minimise that impact and allow her to rebuild her life she is not taking any direct press contact at this time.
Laura has asked that her privacy be respected and that any further enquiries be directed to her brother, Mathew Westhorpe (mat@westhorpe.net).
