Domestic Abuse Fiend Jailed After Years of Terrorising Victim
A brave survivor has spoken out after enduring years of brutal violence and control at the hands of Haroun Yasin Mohammed Berghout. The abuser, known as Yas, has finally been locked up for three years and four months.
Harrowing Ordeal Behind Closed Doors
The victim revealed the horror she lived through. “It became a question of ‘when’ he might kill me, rather than ‘if’,” she said. Yas subjected her to relentless assaults — punching, strangling, kicking — while controlling every part of her life.
She described the mental and physical toll: “I lost hair, I lost weight, and had bruises and scratches all over. Sleep disappeared, replaced by nightmares reliving the torture.”
Jail Sentence at Guildford Crown Court
On 6 February 2025, 27-year-old Berghout from Richmond pleaded guilty to:
- Coercive and controlling behaviour
- Intentional strangulation
- Criminal damage
- Three counts of assault causing actual bodily harm
He was sentenced to three years and four months behind bars and slapped with a 10-year restraining order banning any contact with the survivor and her family.
Survivor’s Powerful Message
Speaking out, the woman stressed how tough it is to leave abuse. “For those who’ve never experienced domestic abuse, it’s much harder than you think. I live daily with guilt for not escaping sooner.”
Despite threats against her family and isolation tactics from Berghout, she escaped with the help of loved ones and police.
“I’m grateful for the endless support from those around me. Surrey Police and the investigating officer were brilliant. I stand here not just for me but for all victims. Abuse is not your fault. It’s not normal. And you don’t deserve it.”
Police Praise Victim’s Bravery
PC Christopher Finucane, who led the investigation, revealed the full horrifying picture behind the case initially thought to be isolated. “Thanks to the victim’s bravery in secretly recording over 100 pieces of evidence, we exposed three years of repeated abuse,” he said.
Witness statements added to the mountain of proof that forced Berghout’s guilty pleas.
Help Is Out There
PC Finucane urged anyone suffering abuse to step forward: “You will be believed and supported. If you’re not ready to speak to police, reach out to one of Surrey’s amazing charities for help.”
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (24/7)
- Surrey Domestic Abuse Helpline: 01483 776822
- Women’s Aid: www.womensaid.org.uk
- Surrey Police: Call 101 or 999 in an emergency
This case exposes the brutal reality of domestic abuse but also shines a light on the courage survivors need to reclaim their lives and find freedom.
