Brave doctor waives anonymity to speak out on domestic abuse horror in Northern Ireland

Domestic abuse survivor, Iwona Giza

A 28-year-old doctor from Northern Ireland has bravely waived her right to anonymity to speak publicly about the horrific abuse she suffered at the hands of her former partner — and to encourage other victims to seek help.

Iwona Giza, a qualified medical doctor, says she has chosen to share her story as Domestic Abuse Awareness Month draws to a close, hoping that others living in fear will find the strength to come forward.

On 23 October 2025, at Dungannon Crown Court, 41-year-old Barry Maguire, from Omagh, was sentenced to five years, with half to be served in custody and the remainder on licence, after being convicted of multiple domestic abuse offences against Iwona — including five counts of non-fatal strangulation.

Each of the five offences carried a five-year sentence, to be served concurrently.

Violent and degrading abuse

Jailed: 41-year-old Barry Maguire, from Omagh

The court heard that on 30 November 2023, police received a third-party report from a neighbour who heard a violent altercation at Maguire’s property. The neighbour, along with another local resident, found Iwona outside the house, crawling on her hands and knees and in desperate need of help.

When officers from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) arrived, they discovered that she was covered in bruises in various stages of healing, evidence of sustained violence over several weeks.

Maguire had subjected her to repeated non-fatal strangulation, pinning her to the ground, covering her mouth and nose, and leaving her gasping for breath — attacks so severe she feared for her life.

He also carried out cruel and demeaning acts, including filming her as she was forced to eat food off the floor, while subjecting her to a torrent of verbal abuse and threats.

‘I did not deserve the treatment he subjected me to’

Speaking publicly for the first time, Iwona said:

“The physical abuse I experienced was very traumatic, psychologically damaging and long lasting. To this day when I feel anxious I can feel that breathlessness like every time he choked me and I was unable to breathe.

“His degrading actions caused me to lose confidence in myself and it has taken me considerable time to get control over my life again and to realise that I did not deserve the treatment he subjected me to.

“How many people are subjected to cruelty and abuse behind closed doors in Northern Ireland? I am choosing to speak out and share my experiences so that more victims feel confident enough to break their silence.

“When I reported to the Police I was met with kindness, compassion and support. I have a long way to go in my journey of recovery but taking those first steps and getting the justice I deserve has changed my life for the better.”

‘Behind every statistic is a life changed by abuse’

According to PSNI figures, 32,763 domestic abuse incidents and nearly 20,000 domestic abuse crimes were recorded last year — meaning a domestic abuse incident was reported every 16 minutes on average.

Police also make around 84 arrests each month for domestic abuse offences.

Detective Superintendent Kerry Brennan praised Iwona’s courage, saying:

“Maguire is a very violent and emotionally abusive man and I commend the victim’s bravery in coming forward to bring an end to the cycle of abuse and for fighting for justice.

“Domestic abuse can happen to anyone and unfortunately it is too prevalent in society. Behind each statistic is a person whose life has been changed by abuse.

“If you or someone you know is being subjected to coercive or controlling behaviour or any form of violence, please report it to the PSNI or the 24-hour Domestic Violence helpline on 0808 802 1414.

“Alongside other agencies, we can support you throughout the criminal justice process and will treat you with the utmost dignity and respect.”

Support is available

The 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline (0808 802 1414) offers free and confidential support to anyone affected by domestic or sexual abuse.

If you are in immediate danger, call 999.