Woman warns of early red flags after ex-cop partner assaulted her
Stella Magnisalis describes missing warning signs while dating a former South Australia Police detective. He later became physically abusive.
Stella Magnisalis met Matthew Thomson on a dating app when she was 24. Thomson was 30 and worked in the family violence unit.
Stella's family thought he was articulate and trustworthy. Three months into dating, Stella noticed red flags.
She asked why he was reaching out to other women on social media. He brushed off her concerns.
When she asked him about messages on his phone, he became physically aggressive. He pushed her against the wall.
Stella felt cut off from friends and family. Three years later, she had a child with Thomson.
She hoped things would improve, but the violence continued. Clinical psychologist Phoebe Rogers says red flags are hard to notice while they happen.
They are easier to see later, especially for people who experienced childhood trauma. It also matters if someone doesn't know what a healthy relationship looks like.
- Stella was 24, Thomson was 30
- Ages when they met
- Three months into dating
- Timeline to red flags
- Three years into relationship
- Child born after
Why it mattersThe story shows how abusive partners can hide warning signs at the start. It explains why people in unhealthy relationships often stay.
AustraliaAustralian women and those in relationships may find insight into recognizing early warning signs of abuse before it escalates.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 52 min ago
Open this story in InSnip →
