When Sam Wood’s lawyer applied for his client to be bailed on multiple charges of violence, he went right where all defence lawyers go:
It went like this:
Reframing a man accused of domestic violence into the victim, minimising the offending, using the classic ‘she made him do it’, raising his mental health, claiming there’s no evidence of injuries, saying there’s no history of abuse; and bemoaning how charges and publicity have damaged his reputation.
Every one has arguments, sometimes people raise their voices – but neither of these are reasons to attack a woman.
Mental health problems do not cause violence – they may be a factor – but they are not the reason.
The court heard there was at least one prior assault on Snezana, but charges were not laid. So yes, there is a history. Let’s not forget, almost all victims choose not to pursue domestic violence through the courts for a range of reasons.
It’s alleged Wood strangled Snezana but the lawyer claimed there were no bruises. Often strangulation injuries are hidden and bruising is often not visibly present.
The only thing that caused damage to Wood’s reputation is his (Alleged) decision to harm Snezana.
That phrasing ‘took a beating’ is rank – it belittles Snezana and her experience and reduces the severity of domestic violence.
Wood may think he’s the victim but all he’s feeling is the impact of consequences.
Snezana and her children are the only victims.
NO MATTER WHAT HIS LAWYER SAYS, SNEZANA WOOD IS THE VICTIM
