Man Accused Of Chaining Girlfriend To Bed To Keep Her From Sneaking Out, Meeting Other Men

Last Updated:August 07, 2025, 14:31 IST

The incident came to light on August 5 when the woman managed to flee while at an ATM and took refuge in a nearby pharmacy before approaching the police

Cops also said Woodward is accused of confiscating McGugan’s phone, wallet, and keys, effectively cutting her off from access to her personal belongings. (Representative Image)

Zane Woodward, aged 34, faces several domestic violence charges in Australia after allegedly restraining his partner, 32-year-old Broadie McGugan, by fastening a metal chain around her ankle and securing her to a bed each night. The couple had been together since September 2024.

Authorities say McGugan was only permitted to get up to eat or use the restroom. Woodward reportedly did this to prevent her from leaving the home to meet other men. According to police, his intent was to stop her from “sneaking out of the house to have sex with other men".

The incident came to light on August 5 when McGugan managed to flee while at an ATM and took refuge in a nearby pharmacy. She then proceeded to the Lake Illawarra police station to report the abuse she endured.

Cops also said Woodward is accused of confiscating McGugan’s phone, wallet, and keys, effectively cutting her off from access to her personal belongings. He is also said to have isolated her from her family, friends, and workplace.

McGugan suffered severe injuries, including broken ribs, bruises, and a fractured eye socket. Woodward was subsequently arrested at a residence in Oak Flats and faces charges including kidnapping, assault, and intimidation. He has been denied bail and is scheduled to appear in court later this month, with a further hearing set for October.

According to News.com.au, police said McGugan had a “heavy set, metal chain link padlocked to her right ankle". “This cuff was then padlocked to a chain that was secured to the bed frame."

The incident created ripples on social media, with users terming the act “inhuman". Another used added: “Frightening. I hope he is now in jail and won’t get bail. IMO, torture, cruelty, coercive control, kidnapping. After sentencing and jail, he should have tracking for 5 years. This guy seems really dangerous and likelihood of reoffending seems very high."

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The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d...

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First Published:

August 07, 2025, 14:31 IST

News world Man Accused Of Chaining Girlfriend To Bed To Keep Her From Sneaking Out, Meeting Other Men

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