Coercive Control, a Life Sentence & Finding Love in Prison: Peter Bates

Coercive Control, a Life Sentence & Finding Love in Prison: Peter Bates

From Soberly Speaking by Julia Rangiheuea

May 17, 2026 · 44 min · Season 4 · Episode 25

About this episode

Peter Bates shares his harrowing experiences of coercive control and violence, and how he found purpose and advocacy during his time in prison.

Peter Bates was just a child when his father poured petrol over him and his mother to stop her from leaving. Extreme violence, coercive control, and fear shaped Peter’s childhood, but home wasn’t the only place he was unsafe. At school, he experienced SA at the hands of a male teacher. Desperate to escape the violence, Peter found himself homeless at a young age. But after a tragic accident led to the loss of an innocent young life, Peter was sentenced to life in prison, believing his own life was effectively over too. Instead, prison became the place where Peter began to change. Peter is now a passionate advocate for domestic violence and coercive control. You can connect or work with Peter Bates below; https://petebatesproject.com/ Instagram: @petebatesproject TRIGGER WARNING: domestic violence, coercive control and suicide discussed in detail. Please listen with care. Ready to share your story? Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hello@soberlyspeaking.com.au⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Disclaimer: The stories and experiences shared in this episode are personal accounts told in good faith. While we strive to present these narratives accurately, the views and claims expressed are those of the individuals involved and have…

People in this episode

Host: Julia Rangiheuea

Guest: Peter Bates

Topics covered

  • coercive control
  • domestic violence
  • prison reform
  • personal transformation
  • mental health
  • survivor advocacy

Keywords

  • coercive control
  • domestic violence
  • prison
  • mental health
  • advocacy
  • survivor
  • childhood trauma

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Pete Bates Project, Soberly Speaking, National Alcohol & Other Drug Hotline

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