Domestic abuser's evil campaign of coercive control and violence finally brought to end

A woman has praised police following the sentencing of her evil Doncaster domestic abuser.

Over a prolonged, four-year period, thug Jake Billam subjected the complainant to violence, threats and intimidation.

Following a third-party report on 20 March, police received a number of disclosures from the victim that she had been subjected to a campaign of terror stretching back years.

She was initially concerned about reporting the offences to police and feared that she would not receive the necessary support.

However, she says that the police response to her report had positively changed her and her young child’s life.

The woman’s report was taken seriously, and a thorough investigation was launched, with abuser Billam, arrested the same day.

Several witnesses, as well as the victim, were interviewed and provided statements about Billam’s abusive behaviour.

Further evidence was gathered, including a voice recording of Billam threatening to kill the victim, and several photographs of injuries she had received.

Speaking about her experience after making her report, the victim praised the work of Investigating Officer Rachel McKenzie, the officer in charge of the case.

The victim said: “I would not be here today without the incredible support, dedication and hard work of South Yorkshire Police and the CPS.

“One of biggest barriers to leaving was the fear that I would not be believed or receive the help I needed. I now know that I was so wrong to feel that way.

“I want to give a special thank you to Rachel, the officer in charge of the investigation. Her dedication, compassion and commitment throughout this process has been undeniable and I will always be grateful for everything she has done.

“I hope that sharing my experience gives courage to other survivors of domestic abuse to tell their story, seek support and know that they do not have to face it alone”.

IO McKenzie said:“I am really proud of the victim for reporting to us, and having faith in us to get justice for her and her family who were also affected by these offences.

“Throughout the course of this investigation, we built a strong case of evidence against Billam, and he ultimately pleaded guilty to the offences.

“I was determined for him to be held accountable and feel the consequences of his crimes, and for the victim to get the closure she deserves.

“I know that is not easy for victims of domestic abuse to come forward, but I want anyone who has been the victim of such offending to know that domestic abuse is a priority for the force and we take these reports seriously. You will be believed, and we will work to secure justice.”

On 10 August at Sheffield Crown Court, Billam, 24, of Guildford Road, in Wheatley, Doncaster pleaded guilty to engaging in controlling/ coercive behaviour, and intentional strangulation.

Billam was sentenced at the same court to three years and nine months imprisonment and handed a restraining order for life.

The Judge praised the victim for having the courage to support the investigation and concluding that it was one of the most serious cases of controlling and coercive behaviour that he had seen.

Billam pleaded not guilty to threatening a person with a bladed article, and threatening to share an intimate image or film of another person, and the counts will remain on file.

If you have experienced abusive behaviour, you can report to police online or by calling 101. In an emergency always call 999.