Warning: This article contains discussion of domestic violence which some readers may find distressing
Netflix viewers watching the new documentary added to the platform My Wife, My Abuser do not have to look far in order to find harrowing details.
The documentary is a heartbreaking look at a survivor of domestic abuse who suffered at the hands of his wife for 20 years.
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Richard Spencer, the survivor the documentary focuses on, caught his wife Sheree’s horrific behaviour via a nanny cam, including an incident in which she threatened him with a knife.
She ended up lunging at him with the kitchen knife and making a 2cm cut below his knee.
The Channel 5 documentary, which shot to number one on Netflix's charts after it was added to the platform, features one detail of the abuse which is making fans cry.
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Several instances of the abuse carried out by Sheree happened in front of their kids, something that affected multiple viewers.
One posted saying: “This made me feel sick. The fact she was so vile to him was bad enough, but to do it front of the children?
“All those kids and the husband experienced horrors I can’t comprehend.
“I really hope they are doing well now and never have to see that monster again.”
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Another viewer commented on a reddit thread saying: “I was in tears at times and I'm a hard-nosed b*tch these days.
“Physical/mental abuse towards men is STILL swept under the carpet for the most part. To only get 4 years was an absolute insult. Our judicial system is too bloody soft.”
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Spencer pled guilty to coercive and controlling behaviour and three counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and received a four-year prison sentence.
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The comment went on to say: “All that said the victim does have a chance to rebuild their life now. For men reading this, if you feel something is wrong, talk to someone. ANYONE.
“This guy was one step away from the hospital or worse. It was all happening around their young children.
“His friend noticed and made the report to the police. It could have been a very different ending.”
Sheree was reported after a friend was called to the property during an argument.
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When they spoke to Richard alone, they asked about a bruise on him they had noticed prior.
He told them of the abuse he suffered, and they reported it to the police.
As well as constant verbal abuse, there were 43 images of his battered and bruised body.
She at one point smashed a wine bottle over his head, causing him to develop an ear injury.
The heartbreaking effect of this abuse is detailed in the documentary, as well as bodycam footage of the arresting officers.
My Wife, My Abuser is on Netflix now.
If you are experiencing domestic violence, please know that you are not alone. Male victims can call ManKind’s confidential helpline freephone on 0808 800 1170, available Monday-Friday 10am-4pm. There is also the national domestic violence helpline Refuge, supporting women and children, on 0808 2000 247, available 24/7, or via live chat, available 10am-10pm, Monday to Friday.
Michael Slavin