Attacker from Cornwall convicted of driving van at stranger before strangling her
The attack happened in Andover, Hampshire in March
An attacker who drove his van at a stranger before dragging her to the vehicle and strangling her has been convicted of the “chilling” incident by a jury.
Safiya Anna Haverty, who is a biological male but presented as a woman during the trial at Winchester Crown Court, was found guilty of the attack on the woman, which happened in Andover, Hampshire, on March 2.
The 28-year-old of Newquay, Cornwall, who was formerly known as Sean Haverty, was convicted of kidnapping, intentional strangulation, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, as well as perverting the course of justice and had pleaded guilty to dangerous driving.
A CPS spokesman said: “Safiya Anna Haverty, 28, formerly known as Sean Haverty, struck the victim with a van on Micheldever Road near Andover on 2 March 2026, before dragging her towards the vehicle and strangling her.
“The victim, walking alone, was hit from behind without warning. She managed to escape her attacker and run to safety, alerting members of the public nearby.”
Natalie Cheesman, senior crown prosecutor, said: “This was a chilling attack on a complete stranger.
“Haverty drove to Hampshire before striking a lone woman with a van, dragging her towards the vehicle and strangling her.
“Working closely with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, CPS prosecutors built a strong case using forensic and ANPR evidence, mobile phone data and eyewitnesses to prove Haverty was responsible.
“We hope these convictions provide some reassurance to the victim that Haverty has been brought to justice.”