A woman, who endured 25 years of being a “house slave,” delivered a poignant message following the harrowing experiences she faced. Amanda Wixon, aged 56, subjected the victim to an abusive environment at her rundown residence in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire. The victim, currently in her mid-40s, moved into Wixon’s home when she was 16 in 1995 and stayed until 2021. Court proceedings revealed that the victim, now referring to Wixon as The Witch, suffered regular physical assaults, including being beaten and having her teeth knocked out with a broom handle.

During the sentencing at Gloucester Crown Court, a heartfelt letter written by the woman while in captivity was shared. In the note, she expressed the torment of living in fear, control, and abuse for a quarter of a century, emphasizing the lasting trauma and nightmares she continues to endure. Despite the abuse, she found solace in a caring family that now supports her on her journey to recovery and rebuilding her life.

The court learned of the appalling living conditions imposed by the mother of ten on the victim, such as force-feeding her washing-up liquid, splashing bleach on her face, and restricting her food intake. The victim survived on meager scraps, was confined to the house, and could only wash in secret at night. The family’s residence in Tewkesbury’s Priors Park area was described as overcrowded and filthy, with mold-covered walls and a neglected garden.

Wixon was convicted by a jury on charges of false imprisonment, compelling forced labor, and assault resulting in bodily harm. Police intervention in March 2021 was prompted by a report from one of Wixon’s sons regarding the victim’s situation. Witnesses described the victim’s appearance as emaciated, with a shaved head, comparing her to a concentration camp survivor. Social services had past involvement with the family, but no recent records existed. Wixon had also unlawfully claimed the victim’s state benefits, amounting to over £100,000.

Throughout the trial, Wixon denied all accusations and shifted blame to her estranged son, Clint, for influencing the victim. The presiding judge criticized Wixon for her persistent denial of the impact of her actions on the victim, underscoring the severity of her offenses.