Brutal Attacker Jailed for 9 Years After Horrific Assaults on Vulnerable Women
Karl Mark Giddings, a man with no fixed address, was locked up for nine years and will serve an additional five years on licence after a Southwark Crown Court sentencing on Friday, 24 November.
Horrifying Attacks on Homeless Women in Kensington & Chelsea
Giddings had previously admitted two counts of assault occasioning grievous bodily harm with intent at the same court on 8 August. His first known attack happened on 28 September 2022 at a friend’s home in Kensington and Chelsea, where he savagely assaulted a woman he’d known for about a year. Both had been homeless when they met.
Preying on her vulnerabilities, Giddings punched and kicked her repeatedly, even threatening to blind her. The victim was later found curled up in a car park by a homeless charity worker the following day, barely recognisable with multiple cuts, two black eyes, and severe facial injuries requiring specialist medical treatment.
Five Hours of Terror as Giddings Strikes Again
On 20 January 2023, Giddings launched another terrifying attack, this time on a woman he had known for 20 years. Over a grueling five hours, he slammed her head against a wall, cracked her ribs with vicious blows, and even poured petrol onto her, rubbing it into her eyes.
Police were alerted and launched urgent cross-force inquiries to track Giddings down. He was finally caught on 10 February in a communal area of a block of flats on Alfred Road, Kensington and Chelsea.
Police Praise Victims’ Bravery and Vow to Combat Predatory Violence
Both survivors received dedicated support from specialist officers throughout the police investigation and the legal process.
Detective Constable Dax Borcha, Central West Basic Command, said: “Both victims have shown tremendous strength and courage throughout this investigation.
“Giddings is clearly an extremely dangerous man. I am pleased our investigation has resulted in him being jailed for a considerable amount of time and I hope today’s result shows just how committed we are to bringing predatory offenders to justice.”
The Met Police reaffirm their commitment to making London safer for all. As part of A New Met for London, more resources are being poured into protecting victims and prosecuting violent offenders targeting women and children.
