Lucy Godley’s ex-partner, Ben Siddle, has been sentenced to 23 years in prison following his conviction for serious offences involving domestic abuse and sexual violence. Godley, a 29-year-old mother from Portsmouth, England, has spoken publicly about the abuse she experienced during their relationship and the evidence she secretly collected with help from her mother, Sharon.
Her case has attracted widespread attention after she shared details of the violence, the criminal trial and her efforts to secure justice. In September 2026, Godley and her mother appeared together on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour to discuss their experiences and the evidence that helped secure Siddle’s conviction.
Who Is Lucy Godley’s Ex-Partner Ben Siddle?
Ben Siddle is the former boyfriend of Lucy Godley, who experienced physical, sexual and psychological abuse during their relationship. The couple were together for approximately two and a half years, with the abuse taking place between 2021 and 2023.
Godley became pregnant in 2021, and the violence reportedly escalated during her pregnancy and after the birth of their daughter. She described being subjected to controlling behaviour, threats and repeated assaults.
Siddle also monitored her movements and phone, making it difficult for her to communicate privately or seek help. Godley later explained that she feared for her safety and the safety of her family.
How Lucy Godley Collected Evidence Against Her Ex-Partner
Godley began secretly documenting the abuse while she was still living under Siddle’s control. She photographed her injuries and collected other evidence that could support a criminal investigation.
Her mother, Sharon, became an important part of the process. Godley sent photographs and other material to her mother for safekeeping before deleting copies from her own phone.
The arrangement helped preserve evidence that might otherwise have been lost. Although Siddle discovered and deleted some material, copies had already been stored elsewhere.
Godley continued gathering evidence for months despite the risk of being discovered. The material eventually became important to the prosecution’s case.
Ben Siddle’s Trial and 23-Year Prison Sentence
The criminal proceedings involved allegations of serious violence, sexual assault and intimidation. Following a trial lasting approximately two weeks, Siddle was convicted on 10 of the 11 charges brought against him.
He received a total prison sentence of 23 years. The sentence included 22 years for a serious sexual assault involving a steak knife and an additional year for witness intimidation.
Godley was not present in court when the verdict was delivered. Friends visited her home to tell her the outcome, and footage captured her emotional reaction as she learned that Siddle had been convicted.
An indefinite restraining order was also imposed to protect Godley. Siddle subsequently pursued an appeal against his conviction.
Lucy Godley Speaks About Her Experience
Following the court proceedings, Godley began sharing her story publicly to raise awareness of domestic abuse and the difficulties survivors can face when reporting violence.
In September 2026, she appeared alongside her mother on Woman’s Hour, where they discussed the months spent collecting evidence and the role Sharon played in helping her daughter.
Godley has also spoken about the challenges she experienced during the investigation and legal proceedings, including moments when she considered withdrawing from the case.
Her public advocacy has focused on helping other survivors understand the importance of seeking support and documenting abuse safely.
Where Are Lucy Godley and Ben Siddle Now?
Godley has continued speaking publicly about domestic violence while raising her children and rebuilding her life following the criminal proceedings. She has also supported awareness and fundraising efforts connected with Women’s Aid.
Siddle received a 23-year prison sentence, while Godley remains protected by an indefinite restraining order.
As of the most recent publicly reported developments, Godley has continued her advocacy, including her September 2026 radio appearance. Siddle’s appeal was reported, but a final outcome has not been independently confirmed.