A VICTIM of domestic abuse has shared her thoughts following the sentencing of her ex-partner.

Mark Scott Higgins, of Linnards Lane in Wincham, will spend the next three years behind bars after being convicted of controlling and coercive behaviour.

His victim, who has asked not to be named, has now opened up on the 11-year ordeal.

“We got together 2008 and it quickly spiralled into domestic abuse,” she said.

“I tried for years to get out of it.”

It is understood that Higgins, 39, controlled her finances, filmed her, timed her when she went out, and accused her of infidelity.

It wasn’t until she spoke to her sister that things began to change.

“She could tell something was wrong," the victim added. "I told her ‘I am going to be dead by the end of the week’.

“Mark was arrested in 2019 but continued to stalk me until I got a restraining order.”

It is understood that the trial was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

As such, Higgins was not sentenced until November 24, 2023.

“The whole court process has been very traumatising," Higgins’ ex added.

“The rollercoaster of thinking everything was going to be OK but then having to wait.

“He took 11 years from me so in comparison his sentence is not much. It is not an equal justice but it is justice nonetheless.”

Northwich Guardian: Mark Higgins was sentenced on November 24, 2023Mark Higgins was sentenced on November 24, 2023 (Image: Cheshire Police)

The effects of Higgins’ actions still continue to affect the victim to this day.

She added: “After spending 11 years with him, just trying to get back into society has been a lot harder than I expected.

“I just want to feel free but I still don’t.

“I go to see the doctor regularly, they say I have been deeply affected and have prolonged PTSD.

“I am struggling with social anxiety, panic attacks, and being in crowded spaces.”

At the sentencing on November 24, the court heard how Higgins had refused to acknowledge his wrongdoings, with the pre-sentence reports suggesting he would not be capable of rehabilitation.

The judge described Higgins’ evidence as 'delusional' and labelled him a 'deeply manipulative and cunning individual', adding he made the victim’s life 'a misery'.

As well as the controlling and coercive behaviour charge, Higgins was also sentenced for breaching a non-molestation order.

For this he was handed a a total three-year prison sentence along with an indefinite restraining order, banning him from entering certain areas in Beeston, Cheshire.

He must also not communicate with the victim unless via a solicitor.