Doncaster burglar who sexually assaulted elderly woman in her own home handed 18 year sentence
Tyler Clarke broke into the home of 94 year old Sheila Wood last December
Last updated 3rd Aug 2026
A Doncaster burglar has been handed an 18 and a half year sentence, after he broke into the home of a vulnerable woman and sexually assaulted her.
25 year old Tyler Clarke, of HMP Doncaster, must serve at least two thirds of his term behind bars, following his conviction at Sheffield Crown Court.
Forensic anaylsis of Sheila Wood's home, which had been ransacked at the hands of Clarke last December, conclusively linked him to the scene.
94 year old Sheila, who passed away earlier this year, was found in a distressed state by a carer who dialled 999.
Clarke was arrested shortly afterwards during a raid in Balby.
In a tribute the family of Shiela wrote: "Tyler Clarke blew up our lives, destroyed our family's peace and set a terrifying domino effect in motion that dimmed and then permanently extinguished Sheila's bright light.
"Her little bungalow was her safe haven and it was there that he not only physically attacked her, but attacked her in the worst, most depraved way imaginable.
"After the attack she could never go back home. She would never feel safe there again. He stole her home, her independence and her peace of mind.
"As a family, we are carrying a horror and a grief that nobody should ever have to think about when they close their eyes at night. This act has terrified us all and will leave a forever-lasting impact on so many people."
Detective Sergeant Lee Robinson of South Yorkshire Police said:
"This was a horrific and wicked attack on a vulnerable and elderly woman whose life was sadly changed forever the night Clarke invaded her home and sexually assaulted her," DS Robinson said.
"Sheila's courage and openness meant we were able to understand the more sinister nature behind this break-in and ensured that we conducted a forensic-led investigation which swiftly led us to identifying Clarke as our suspect.
"There is no justifiable explanation for what he did and I am pleased we were able to secure justice on behalf of Sheila's family and in honour and memory of Sheila herself."