A severe case of domestic violence culminated in the paralysis of a woman after her ex-partner, Robert Easom, 56, attacked her in a fit of rage. The incident, which took place on February 17, 2025, left Trudi Burgess, 57, with a severed spinal cord and a diagnosis of tetraplegia, requiring lifelong care. Easom is now facing a potential life sentence for the brutal assault.
During the trial, which concluded with Easom being convicted of Section 18 Assault, Burgess provided harrowing testimony from her hospital bed. She described the moment her spine cracked and the immediate numbness that followed, stating, “I would never walk again.” Easom had previously admitted to engaging in coercive and controlling behavior towards Burgess over an eight-year period.
History of Abuse and Control
Burgess, a former secondary school teacher who specialized in French and Spanish, meticulously documented the abuse she endured throughout their relationship. According to records, she faced a relentless pattern of controlling behavior, including physical violence, verbal abuse, and psychological manipulation. Lancashire Police reported that Easom’s actions were marked by intimidation, including incidents where he forced her to clean up messes and drove dangerously to instill fear.
In a particularly alarming encounter in 2019, he violently seized her wine, slammed a fridge door, and dragged her upstairs by her hair, banging her against each step. Another incident involved him placing a sheet over her head and attempting to strangle her, which he later dismissed as merely “teaching her a lesson.”
Despite multiple attempts to leave the relationship, Burgess found herself trapped in a cycle of abuse. Police noted that Easom would frequently belittle her, undermining her self-worth and creating a sense of dependency.
The Final Assault and Legal Consequences
The assault that led to Burgess’s paralysis occurred after she informed Easom of her decision to leave. In a fit of uncontrollable rage, he pinned her face down on a bed and applied his full weight to her neck, resulting in catastrophic injuries.
Detective Constable Bethanie Kirk from the Burnley Vulnerable Adults Team described Easom as a “manipulative and controlling individual” with a deeply troubling perspective on women. She commended Burgess for her bravery in coming forward, emphasizing the profound impact of Easom’s sustained abuse on her life.
Easom, who is currently of no fixed address but previously resided in Chipping, will be sentenced at Preston Crown Court on February 27, 2026. His actions have drawn attention to the critical issue of domestic violence, highlighting the need for victims to seek help and for communities to engage in preventive measures.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with controlling relationships and the importance of supporting victims. If you or someone you know is experiencing similar issues, authorities encourage reaching out to local law enforcement for assistance.
