A man hit his ex-wife multiple times with a hammer and screwdriver during a 'vicious and sustained attack' days after Christmas
Alec Butt hid behind bins outside her work on Whiteladies Road on Saturday, December 28, 2019 striking her multiple times with the weapons.
Bristol Crown Court was told Butt pushed her against a wall. Trying to free herself, she fell to the ground and was repeatedly struck by Butt with a hammer.
The 71-year-old had his hood up initially but during the attack it fell down, which is when the victim recognised him.
A witness called the police, and Butt fled the scene.
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He was arrested approximately 90 minutes later sat in his vehicle in a car park near Cribbs Causeway.
His ex-wife sustained head injuries and was taken to hospital. She has made a full recovery from her physical injuries
Butt lied to officers claiming he was the one who had been attacked and kept up the pretence throughout the trial..
Butt, of Cotswold Mead in Painswick, was found guilty of assault causing grievous bodily harm at Bristol Crown Court on Wednesday (March 24).
PC Nina Foster said: “This was a calculated, vicious attack by Butt on his ex-wife – the mother of his children.
“I hope that this will provide reassurance to survivors of domestic abuse that you will be heard.
“I would like to thank the victim in this case for her bravery and strength throughout both the investigation and the trial Butt forced her to endure, because he continued to lie.”
A date for his sentencing is to be confirmed.
Information about support for domestic abuse victims is available here.
