Laura continues her in-depth analysis of the landmark case Police v Callum Fairleigh with survivor Sam Bouffler, moving beyond the initial conviction to further unpack the patterns, behaviours, and responses that shaped this significant outcome.

Callum Fairleigh, 34, was sentenced in February 2026 to two years’ imprisonment with a non-parole period of 15 months, becoming the first person in NSW to receive jail time under the state’s new coercive control laws after the offence was criminalised in July 2024. He was released after just 15 months and has since been re-arrested for breaching his parole conditions.

Key Analytical Takeaways:
1. Escalation, Pattern Recognition and Evidence Collection: How coercive control intensifies over time, why early identification of the pattern - not individual incidents - is critical and the importance of collecting evidence.

2.Serial Perpetration: there’s always a history and multiple victims.

3.The Impact on Victims: Understanding the psychological and emotional toll of sustained coercive control and why victims may not be able to leave safely.

4.Prevention and Protection: A national register of abusers is needed to ensure men’s histories of controlling and abusive behaviour are joined up.

Episode Resources and Support:If you or someone you know is experiencing coercive control, help is available:

· 1800RESPECT: Call 1800 737 732 for 24/7 support and counseling.

· NSW Domestic Violence Line: 1800 656 463.

· Empower You App: A tool for discreetly documenting abuse and finding support.

This episode contains important, life-changing and life-saving information about coercive control, risk, and recognising patterns of abuse. Listen and share this episode. You could save a life.

Follow Sam on Instagram and TikTok @sammieejade0

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Website: https://www.crime-analyst.com https://www.thelaurarichards.com
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Instagram: / crimeanalys. .
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