An Army veteran has been sentenced to six years in jail after brutally assaulting his mother, leaving her hospitalized and in fear for her life. The unprovoked attack took place in Wigton, during a drink-fueled incident that left Wendy Fearon with four fractured ribs and a punctured lung. She required treatment in the hospital, where blood had to be drained from her lung. Four days of hospitalization were needed to address the injuries, which have since been complicated by repeated lung infections, leaving her in pain and breathless.
In her victim statement, Wendy Fearon expressed the ongoing physical and mental struggles she faces as a result of the assault. She experiences difficulties with daily activities, such as climbing stairs and lifting objects, which have impacted her work as a cleaner. Additionally, she has suffered from mental health issues, finding it challenging to feel settled in her own home. Fearful of her son, she had the locks changed and feels uncomfortable even when going into her own garden. The incident has also affected her sleep patterns.
As a mother, Wendy Fearon shared the difficulty in processing what had occurred, expressing her unwillingness to see her son again due to the fear she experiences. She noted that encountering him would evoke the same level of fear she felt during the attack. Judge Guy Mathieson, in delivering the six-year jail sentence, remarked that Fearon had directed his frustration and anger towards his mother. Although Fearon may have viewed it differently, the judge emphasized that Wendy was the one who suffered the brunt of his anger.
Judge Mathieson expressed concerns about Wendy Fearon’s mental scars, stating that it remains uncertain whether they will heal. He acknowledged the fractured relationship between mother and son, stating it was the saddest aspect of the case. The judge questioned whether the relationship would ever repair itself.
The sentencing hearing shed light on the extent of Wendy Fearon’s support for her son throughout his life, indicating that Fearon himself understood the crucial role his mother played. As part of the sentence, a non-contact restraining order was put in place indefinitely to allow Wendy the opportunity to heal without further interference.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences that can arise from domestic violence. Wendy Fearon’s physical and emotional pain, along with her fears for her own safety and well-being, highlight the urgent need for ongoing efforts to combat domestic abuse and support victims.
