Charles Hanson, a prominent TV auctioneer, appeared at Derby Crown Court on Monday, facing serious charges of controlling or coercive behavior, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and assault by beating. Allegations against Mr. Hanson, 46, span over a decade, with incidents reportedly starting in 2012. His wife, Rebecca Hanson, testified that her husband would become violent approximately "every six months or so" after the first incident.
Rebecca Hanson described being "too scared to call the police" despite enduring violence that allegedly began in 2012 when Mr. Hanson used "sufficient force" to leave visible marks on her body. A specific incident in 2015 reportedly left her with three fingertip bruises on her arm, causing "really hurt and caused her to cry."
The couple's turbulent relationship saw a notable incident in May 2022 over a disagreement about their kitchen layout. Mr. Hanson allegedly grabbed his wife "so forcefully that he left a red mark on her shoulder." By early 2023, Rebecca Hanson felt compelled to leave her husband, although they attempted to address their issues with a marriage counselor.
In May 2023, after reportedly being pushed twice by Mr. Hanson, Rebecca Hanson conveyed her distress through a message to her husband:
"I shouldn't be scared of my husband, they are meant to protect you, not hurt you." – Mrs Hanson
The charges of controlling or coercive behavior cover a period from 2015 to 2023. Prosecutor Stephen Kemp emphasized the legal context of the charges:
"Until that date whatever behaviour took place beforehand, it could not be an offence of controlling or coercive behaviour." – Prosecutor Stephen Kemp
Mr. Hanson was arrested at his home in June 2023 following these allegations. During a police interview, he denied any wrongdoing, refuting claims that he had grabbed, poked, or squeezed his wife.
Despite the gravity of the accusations, Mr. Hanson denied all charges against him during his February 2024 court appearance. The trial is anticipated to extend up to two weeks as both sides present their arguments.
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