A woman living in fear of her violent and controlling partner escaped his abuse by using a secret code word when she visited a pharmacist. The woman went into Boots pharmacy and asked for “Ani” which staff knew meant she needed help and they took her into a back room.
Police were contacted and her abuser, Anthony Ballard, was arrested and interviewed. He has now pleaded guilty to controlling and coercive behaviour and assault causing actual bodily harm and has been jailed for two years.
Judge Stuart Driver said Ballard's behaviour spanned months, and the woman's victim impact statement revealed she has since been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder requiring prescribed medication. The judge told Ballard, of Marsh Lane, Bootle, he would also impose a 10-year restraining order to keep away from his victim.
