Dangerous Offender Jailed for Harms Against Female Partners

A Co Antrim man deemed to “pose a serious risk of harm” to female partners was handed a sentence totalling six years today (Tuesday) for domestic offences.

The Sentence
Samuel William David Hefferon, assessed as a ‘dangerous offender,’ received a four-year custodial sentence followed by an extended two-year period on licence.

Court Details
Hefferon, 27, from Adelaide Avenue in Whitehead, admitted to assaulting his then-partner in October 2023 and non-fatally strangling her two days later. The court heard that the incidents occurred when the victim was trying to end the relationship, and Hefferon had a history of assaulting her.

Victim's Testimony
The injured party described how Hefferon became violent about three to four months into their relationship. Despite his promises to change, he resorted to controlling and abusive behavior, blaming her for everything.

Incidents
On October 25, 2023, he physically assaulted her to the point where she decided to leave. Two days later, while she was preparing to depart, Hefferon violently attacked her again, resulting in severe injuries.

Legal Proceedings
Hefferon initially denied the charges but eventually pleaded guilty just before the trial. The judge highlighted the impact of the delay on the victim and noted Hefferon's previous assaults on the same woman.

Final Remarks
Judge Patricia Smythe emphasized the trauma experienced by victims of such abuse, illustrating the challenges faced by those trying to leave their perpetrators.