A man has been sentenced to jail for subjecting his bed-bound girlfriend to a distressing ordeal by prohibiting her from using the toilet for five days. Jack Preston, 29, hid the toilet roll and ordered Katya Aleksova to “hold it in,” causing her 120 hours of discomfort. When she was eventually allowed to use the facilities, the experience led to a spike in her heart rate, leaving her paralyzed for an hour.
In a desperate plea for help, Aleksova called emergency services from her bed, describing Preston as having a quick temper. Upon police arrival at their home in Crewe, Cheshire, it was revealed that Preston had contemplated a “mercy killing” on his girlfriend before considering taking his own life.
Aleksova, who is bedridden due to medical conditions, reported that Preston also threw bottles of her liquid food at her, especially when reminded to feed her. Preston pleaded guilty at Chester Crown Court to engaging in controlling behavior, along with other offenses including criminal damage, theft, and assault on a police officer, resulting in a 20-month prison sentence.
Prosecutor Sarah Badrawy stated that on May 14, 2025, police responded to a distress call from Aleksova, who mentioned threats of physical assault and a “mercy kill plus suicide” from Preston. She also detailed instances of verbal abuse and damage to property by Preston. Additionally, Aleksova was forced to endure over 120 hours without using the toilet, with Preston removing her access to toilet paper at one point, causing her extreme discomfort.
Preston’s mental health deterioration, attributed to excessive cannabis use, was highlighted by his defense lawyer, Peter Barnett. Preston claimed he struggled to care for his partner, leading to mental health issues. Judge Simon Berkson condemned Preston’s actions, describing his behavior as disgraceful and intended to humiliate and degrade Aleksova, who required care and attention.