A 19-year-old man has been sentenced to 15 months in a young offenders institute after a series of violent attacks on his girlfriend and her cat in Cardiff. Steven Cornish pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and grievous bodily harm.
The incidents began in May 2023, when Cornish, under the influence of drugs, violently attacked his girlfriend’s cat while she was asleep. According to prosecutor Dan Jones, the victim was awakened by the sound of Cornish picking up the cat and slamming it against the floor and walls. He then punched the animal repeatedly until it died, before forcing his girlfriend to clean the scene.
In June, the violence escalated when Cornish, described as “incoherent,” brandished an eight-inch kitchen knife. He stabbed his girlfriend in the leg during this incident, which seemed to momentarily bring him to his senses. He subsequently apologized and assisted her to the bathroom, where she was treated for a one-inch laceration above her knee.
Cornish’s aggression continued throughout July. He struck the victim with a television remote, dragged her across the floor, and insulted her. On July 15, he caused her a black eye after slapping and elbowing her in the face. The final attack occurred on July 16, when he assaulted her with a metal mop pole, resulting in several injuries, including bruises and a cut to her head.
Police were called to the couple’s home following these incidents and described the victim as “petrified.” Cornish, residing on May Street in Cathays, had no prior convictions but had received a caution for battery and shoplifting.
During the sentencing hearing at Newport Crown Court, defense attorney David Pinnell highlighted Cornish’s developmental issues stemming from his childhood and upbringing. Pinnell noted that Cornish’s use of cannabis contributed to his violent behavior. Since being remanded in custody, Cornish has reportedly become drug-free and is seeking employment opportunities while in prison.
Judge Daniel Williams emphasized the severity of the attacks, ultimately sentencing Cornish to 15 months in a young offenders institute for his actions. The court’s decision serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of domestic violence and animal cruelty.
