SHERRY Naidoo’s repeated assaults on her partner Paul Jenner tragically resulted in his untimely death.
The episode of docuseries 24 Hours in Police Custody featuring the disturbing case sheds light on male victims of domestic abuse, a subject sadly often overlooked.
Sherry Naidoo is the former partner of the late Paul Jenner, a 41-year-old man from Houghton Regis, Bedfordshire.
Their relationship was marked by severe domestic violence.
On October 23, 2019, Naidoo assaulted Paul at their home, leaving him critically injured and hospitalised.
He needed urgent treatment for trauma after enduring two bleeds to the brain.
Paul succumbed to his injuries 12 days later.
The assault and its aftermath were documented in an episode of Channel 4‘s 24 Hours in Police Custody titled Til Death Do US Part.
It first aired in 2021, leaving viewers shocked by the extent of the abuse Paul endured.
Paul had hoped that Naidoo would reform after serving six months in prison for grievous bodily harm against him.
However, the abuse continued upon her release.
The violent relationship culminated in the fatal assault that led to his death.
The incident occurred just five days after Naidoo was released for another assault on him that required medical attention.
Bedfordshire Police officer Alicia Lawrence knew the couple from the previous case, and said on the show: “Paul has always been loyal to Sherry.
“When I look back at the history there have been so many assaults. But Paul wouldn’t name them.”
She’d previously unsuccessfully attempted to persuade Paul to speak out about the abuse, and admitted it was “massive” for him when he called 999 from hospital and made the allegations against Sherry.
Paul told the dispatcher in the call: “I’ve been violently attacked again by my partner. I’m in intensive care.
“She’s been in prison for six months and she’s come out and done it to me again.
“I’ve just got to get out the relationship now haven’t I?”
The call handler poignantly replied: “Yes, I would say so. People who love you don’t hurt you like that.”
Despite the severity of her actions, Naidoo was cleared of both murder and manslaughter charges during her trial.
She pleaded guilty only to assault and received an 18-month prison sentence.
The lenient sentence sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice on behalf of Paul.
A petition on Change.org demanded a harsher punishment for Naidoo, arguing that eight months was insufficient for the abuse and ultimate loss of life she caused.
The case brought attention to male victims of domestic abuse, a topic often underrepresented in discussions about domestic violence.
The documentary illustrated how societal perceptions can sometimes make it difficult for male victims to seek help or be taken seriously.
Paul’s story highlighted the devastating consequences of ignoring or underestimating abuse against men.
You don’t have to suffer in silence.
If you are experiencing domestic violence or someone you know is there are groups that can help.
Refuge runs a free, 24-hour helpline on 0808 2000 247.
You can also visit the website or contact Women’s Aid.
The 24 Hours in Police Custody episode featuring the case, Til Death Do Us Part, is airing on Channel 4 at 9pm on Monday, December 16, 2024.
