Midland Mother Survives Six-Minute Brush with Death in Brutal Assault
A Midland mother has revealed how she was just six minutes from death during a horrific attack by her ex-fiancé, who has now been jailed for 15 years. Lori Reddyhoff, a 43-year-old healthcare worker from Burton-on-Trent, endured hours of brutal violence at the hands of Liam Dawson in May 2025.
A Relationship Turned Violent
Lori Reddyhoff met Liam Dawson in 2022, describing their initial connection as being "best friends" before their relationship turned romantic in October 2024. Their whirlwind romance included a New Year trip to Morocco where Dawson proposed on December 29, 2024. However, the relationship quickly deteriorated upon their return to the UK.
"I was aware of his previous convictions," Lori revealed, referencing Dawson's 16 prior criminal offenses. "I'd never seen that side of him. I never thought he would do it to me."
The Night of Terror
The horrific attack occurred on May 11, 2025, after Lori, Dawson, and her youngest daughter had enjoyed a meal and stayed at a Holiday Inn hotel. Following drinks at a Burton-on-Trent bar where Dawson consumed alcohol heavily, the situation escalated dramatically.
Prosecutor Robert Holt described how Dawson drove erratically, eventually crashing into a cricket club before stopping at a park where the violence intensified. Dawson accused Lori of infidelity before subjecting her to a sustained assault.
Minutes from Death
The attack involved multiple forms of brutality. Dawson held Lori's head under sewage water in a brook, repeatedly slammed a car door into her head, stabbed at her vagina with a car key, and defecated on her before rubbing his faeces into her wounds.
"He abused me for hours on end," Lori recounted. "The police said I was six minutes from losing my life. I thought 'if I don't shout or scream I'm going to die'. I thought, 'I've three kids to look after'."
Life-Saving Intervention
A neighbor heard Lori's desperate screams and immediately contacted the police, an action she credits with saving her life. "The man who heard my screams, to this day I say he saved my life," she stated.
When officers arrived, they found Lori in such a severe condition that one struggled to describe her appearance as she walked toward him. Dawson was remanded in custody the same day.
Severe Injuries and Recovery
The assault left Lori with extensive injuries including a severely bruised skull, brain bleed, fractured finger and arm, and bruises covering even the soles of her feet. Medical professionals had to cut five inches from her hair due to sewage contamination.
"Mentally I don't think I'll ever get over it," Lori admitted. The attack has left her with severe anxiety, requiring her to install security cameras in her home and cover her letterbox. She has withdrawn from social activities and follows a strict routine of not leaving home after 4pm.
Justice Served
At Stafford Crown Court on March 31, 2026, Liam Dawson admitted grievous bodily harm with intent and was sentenced to 15 years and three months imprisonment, with an extended license period of four years.
Despite the trauma, Lori has returned to work as a healthcare worker and begun counseling. "I brought it all the way to trial and I hope and pray he doesn't do it to anyone else's daughter," she said, expressing concern for potential future victims.
The case highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence and the importance of community intervention in preventing tragic outcomes.
