Former Olympian Curtis Robb Accused of Controlling Behaviour, Wife Feared Death
Curtis Robb, 54, a former Olympic athlete, is currently on trial at Chester Crown Court, facing accusations of repeatedly engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour towards his wife, Sarah Robb, between December 2015 and August 2023. Robb, who represented Great Britain in the 800 metres at the 1992 and 1996 Olympic Games and subsequently became a surgeon, denies all charges.
Prosecutor Paulinus Barnes informed the jury that Sarah Robb, a general practitioner, expressed fears that she would "end up dead" if she did not leave the marriage. She detailed incidents where Robb allegedly assaulted and threatened her, subjected her to constant criticism, and used derogatory names.
The court heard that matters culminated during an Easter 2023 family holiday in the Lake District, where Ms Robb alleges her husband held a pillow over her face during an argument. She stated she "couldn't breathe" and that this incident was "rock bottom," leading her to conclude, "if I didn't leave I was going to end up dead."
Ms Robb also described a history of assaults throughout their marriage, including being struck during her pregnancy with their third child. She recounted being "thumped" on the arm, leaving bruising, and punched on the arm and side while Robb was driving. She told police Robb would call her "a manipulative bitch" and "neurotic," belittling her professional role as a GP. She claims she learned not to react, fearing the consequences.
Robb, of Northwich, Cheshire, denies controlling and coercive behaviour and suffocation. He claims his wife was the "controlling one" and admitted throwing a pillow during the Easter holiday argument, but denied placing it over her face or suffocating her. The trial continues.
