Man jailed over attempted sexual assault of runner in Eston
A man who attacked and tried to sexually assault a woman while she was out running in Eston - has been jailed for 7 years
A man who attacked and tried to sexually assault a woman while she was out running in Eston - has been jailed for 7 years.
One of the officers who investigated the attempted rape has praised the survivor for her bravery and for her “steadfast support” during the police investigation and judicial process.
The Judge in the case, Judge Wadoodi, also said that the lady showed resilience and composure and had been one of the best witnesses in over 30 years of trials of this kind.
And Detective Constable Jodi Prosser joined Judge Wadoodi in paying tribute to three people from the local community who immediately leapt into action that day, chasing then detaining Michael Wanless (41) until police arrived soon afterwards.
The incident happened early one morning in July 2023 in a residential street when the woman was out running on her own.
She was violently knocked to the ground by Wanless and started screaming for help whereupon local people rushed to help.
Today at Teesside Crown Court, Wanless was told he would now be classified as a dangerous offender and would serve an extended sentence (seven years plus a further three on licence) to protect the public.
He will also be subject to a lifetime restraining order.
In November last year a jury took just 35 minutes to return a guilty verdict for Wanless who was then remanded in prison, with the case adjourned until sentencing.
Detective Constable Prosser said: “This lady has understandably suffered lasting trauma from this violent attack, not least because Wanless continually denied his actions that day.
“Despite this horrific ordeal, the lady’s bravery and steadfast support for our investigation has helped bring Wanless to justice and he’ll now spend time in prison where he belongs.
“I also want to thank the local community for their magnificent response that day; without hesitation they put the lady’s safety before their own even as Wanless turned violent against them as he tried desperately to evade police.
“The unwavering support we’ve received from the survivor and from the witnesses undoubtedly helped achieve Wanless’ conviction and I now hope his sentencing will reassure all our communities that Cleveland Police will do everything possible to remove dangerous and violent offenders from our streets.
“Finally, the investigating team wishes the lady all the very best in her ongoing recovery.”