Secret Photo Diary of Beatings Helped Secure Seven-Year Prison Sentence for Abusive Ex-Partner
A courageous woman has revealed how a secret photographic diary of the abuse she endured helped secure a seven-year prison sentence for her violent ex-partner. Charlotte Kavanagh, 40, from Lancashire, documented her injuries in a hidden folder on her phone throughout her relationship with Saul Rajski, 49, who subjected her to regular beatings and sexual aggression.
Living in Fear and Documenting Evidence
Charlotte, who has waived her anonymity to speak publicly for the first time, described how Rajski's controlling behavior escalated quickly after they met through mutual friends on social media in December 2023. "At the time I thought I loved him, but really, I was living in fear," she said. "I would urge anyone in my position to document their injuries and their suffering as I did, so that when you feel strong enough to speak up, the evidence is there."
The former refuge support worker explained that Rajski seemed "lovely at first" – sociable, friendly, and sharing her passion for Formula One. However, his behavior soon turned controlling, with him timing her shopping trips, checking her phone constantly, and criticizing her appearance. "He gradually chipped away at my confidence until I became desperate and depressed," Charlotte recalled.
Escalating Violence and Sexual Aggression
The physical abuse began in March 2024 when Rajski grabbed Charlotte by her arms, wrongly suspecting her of cheating. After that initial assault, the violence escalated dramatically. Later that year, while watching Formula One on television, Rajski screamed at Charlotte to shut up and punched her in the side of the head. "There was blood everywhere," she said. "Even now, I have lasting pain in my cheekbone from the attack."
Rajski also became sexually aggressive, demanding sex daily and becoming increasingly rough. When Charlotte refused him one morning, he forced himself upon her. "I felt so worthless afterwards," she said. "He said it was my fault, because I ought to have been willing to have sex."
The Secret Evidence Folder
Despite her fear, Charlotte secretly documented her injuries in a folder on her phone. "He attacked me every few days, flying into a rage over the smallest issue, and I was covered in bruises," she explained. "But even though I was scared of him, I documented my injuries secretly. One day, I hoped I'd be strong enough to stand up to him. It helped me, just knowing that the injuries were there, and that I had a plan."
The turning point came in November 2024 when the couple were staying at a Premier Inn hotel while waiting for roof repairs on their new flat. Rajski attacked Charlotte in their room, and hotel staff called police after hearing him shouting. "The police were brilliant," Charlotte said. "There was blood everywhere and I was in a real state. The officers helped me to see that I deserved better and I showed them my injuries' folder."
Court Outcome and Lasting Impact
Rajski appeared before Preston Crown Court in August 2025, where he pleaded guilty to sexual assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and battery. He was sentenced to seven years and two months in prison, ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life, and made subject to an indefinite restraining order.
"I was pleased with the result," Charlotte said. "It is a big relief to know he can't do this to anyone else. I managed to track down his ex-partner in Canada, and she too was relieved that he was in prison."
The attacks have had lasting consequences for Charlotte, who suffers from nightmares, trauma, agoraphobia, and has been unable to return to work. However, she has found happiness with a new partner, Gerard, who she describes as "kind and loving." They recently celebrated a milestone holiday to the Lake District, and Charlotte now enjoys the safety and independence of her own flat.
Message of Hope and Support
Charlotte's powerful message to others in similar situations is clear: "I'd urge anyone else in a violent relationship to record evidence in a safe way until you are strong enough to leave. No matter how isolated and scared you feel, there is always hope."
She has received support from SUTDA - Stand up to Domestic Abuse. For confidential support, individuals can call the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Freephone Helpline on 0808 2000 247 or visit womensaid.co.uk. Those affected by fatal domestic abuse can contact AAFDA (Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse) for specialist support.
