A 36-year old woman was awarded the maximum of $70,000 in compensation from Government after she was assaulted by her ex-boyfriend and his mother.

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Board decided in 2002 to award Gayle Ann Burgess the compensation after she was assaulted by her ex-boyfriend and, on a separate occasion, his mother. A report from the Board which was tabled in the Senate yesterday said the ex-boyfriend threw Ms Burgess to the ground three times, kicking her in the abdomen, while his mother attacked her with a shopping cart at a supermarket.

The assaults resulted in a severe back injury requiring an operation.

Post-operation Ms Burgess developed Reflex Dystrophy Syndrome, for which she had to undergo treatment such as injections, physiotherapy and medications for an estimated three to four months.

The Board awarded Ms Burgess $1,968 in legal fees; $12,471 in pecuniary loss, and $6,500 for transportation.

She was also awarded &21,933 for her loss of earnings and an even $30,000 for her personal pain and suffering.

The total amount exceeded the $70,000 glass ceiling by about $3,000, so the total award was $70,000.