Man jailed over terrifying kidnap attack on teen girl walking home
Lee Shiers drags 16-year-old towards car before shocking fightback
Lee Shiers, 36, has been locked up for five years and three months after snatching a 16-year-old girl as she walked home from friends in Taunton. The dad-of-one punched the terrified teen repeatedly but she fought back, breaking free to run for help.
Heroic passers-by chase attacker’s car and help victim escape
Two members of the public witnessed the struggle, chased Shiers in their car, and helped the girl to safety. Their quick thinking proved vital. They also spotted details about Shiers’ distinctive Renault Megane, tipping off police who arrested him just two days later.
Police gather CCTV and forensic evidence to nail violent offender
Though Shiers initially denied everything, meticulous police work — including CCTV reviews and forensic analysis — confirmed his guilt. He eventually admitted attacking the girl and pleaded guilty to kidnapping at Taunton Crown Court on Monday 21 November.
Victim’s chilling statement: I’m scared to walk alone or go out after dark
“Since the incident I no longer walk anywhere by myself. I am now afraid to go out in the dark. The attack has made me wary around older men,” the teenager said. “I blame myself for walking home alone but am thankful it happened to me and not my friends. I fought for my life that night and dread to think what might have happened if it was them.”
Detective Sergeant Rachel Walls praised the victim’s bravery but stressed Shiers alone is to blame. “She should never feel responsible. The only person to blame is Shiers — he violently attacked her late at night,” Walls said.
Shiers, with a record for kidnap and grievous bodily harm, was condemned by Recorder Richard Stead, who said the attack appeared planned and that Shiers “poses a risk of harm to the public.” Upon release, Shiers will remain on licence for three years.
Detective Chief Superintendent Rachel Shields vowed to keep fighting violence against women and praised the two men who stopped to help. “They did an amazing job that night — their actions were crucial to catching Shiers quickly,” she said.
Taunton residents are reminded to stay alert and report suspicious behaviour to keep their community safe.
