Royal Marine Jailed for Years of Abuse Making Girlfriend’s Life 'Not Worth Living'

Jayden Deakin, a 26-year-old serving Royal Marine from Norton Fitzwarren, has been sentenced to 26 months in prison for subjecting his girlfriend to years of physical and psychological abuse. Found guilty by a jury of controlling and coercive behaviour, Deakin’s actions made his partner’s life unbearable and left her fearing for her safety.

The disturbing details emerged during a trial held at Taunton Crown Court, where the victim described how Deakin repeatedly belittled, threatened, and assaulted her. The abuse persisted over several years, causing her significant trauma and lasting physical scars. She expressed in a victim impact statement the ongoing pain of living with the consequences of his actions, saying, “The life I lived when I was with him was not a life worth living.”

The police became involved after the abuse was reported in November 2022. Deakin was arrested the following month and charged after a thorough investigation. While he was acquitted of two rape allegations, he was unanimously convicted of controlling and coercive behaviour at North Somerset Magistrates' Court.

Sentencing, the judge condemned Deakin’s conduct as that of “a coward; as a bully,” noting the persistence and escalating nature of his abusive behaviour over time. In addition to his prison term, restraining orders have been imposed to protect both the victim and her mother.

Detective Constable Eve Tomkinson praised the victim’s courage for coming forward, highlighting that domestic abuse can come from those who appear respectable in public but act differently behind closed doors. A Royal Navy spokesperson condemned Deakin’s actions, reaffirming that criminal behaviour is unacceptable and not tolerated within the Armed Forces.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the severe impact of coercive and controlling abuse and the importance of supporting victims seeking justice.