Portsmouth Alley Attacker Locked Up for Over Three Years
A 26-year-old man who chased and launched a vicious attack on a woman in a Portsmouth alley has been jailed for more than three years.
Chased Her More Than a Mile Before Attack
Liam Nicholas stalked the young woman from Guildhall Square, pursuing her for over a mile before grabbing her from behind in the early hours of Wednesday, 31 August 2016. He dragged her to the ground in a dark alley.
Brave Victim Fights Back and Escapes
Portsmouth Crown Court heard that Nicholas assaulted the woman and tried to pull down her trousers, apparently intending a sexual assault. But the victim fought back, lashing out and shouting for help, managing to break free and flee the scene.
Quick Police Action Leads to Arrest
The attack was reported immediately, and detectives arrested Nicholas within 24 hours. He later pleaded guilty to the offence of intending to commit a sexual assault.
Recorder Mr David Bartlett sentenced Nicholas, from Meriden Road, Southsea, to 3 years and 4 months behind bars, plus an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Detective Praises Victim’s Bravery
“This was a particularly nasty assault where the victim was grabbed in a headlock, physically beaten, then thrown to the floor as Nicholas tried to pull off her trousers – clearly with the intention to sexually assault her,” said Detective Inspector Adam Edwards.
“The victim’s bravery in fighting back and shouting for help stopped this horrific attack. Thanks to our swift action, Nicholas was arrested less than 24 hours later and now faces the consequences.”
“We want the public to know we treat these offences with utmost seriousness and will do everything to bring offenders to justice.”
