Newquay driver jailed for 10 years for attempted kidnapping in Andover
Safiya Anna Haverty sentenced at Winchester Crown Court
Last updated 1 hour ago
A Newquay resident has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for the attempted kidnapping of a woman in Andover, an incident that occurred earlier this year.
Safiya Anna Haverty, who has legally changed their name from Sean Bevann Haverty and presents as female, was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court today after being convicted on multiple charges following a six-day trial in August.
Haverty, 28, from Vyvyan Drive, was found guilty of kidnap, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, dangerous driving, and committing an act intending to pervert the course of justice.
The court heard that on 2nd March, Haverty struck a woman in her 50s with a van on Micheldever Road, causing the victim to fall several feet away.
Haverty attempted to drag the victim toward the van and strangled her, but the victim managed to escape as Haverty opened the rear door of the vehicle.
The victim sought help from two nearby cyclists and fled while Haverty drove off in the van.
Investigating officers tracked Haverty using CCTV footage of the vehicle's license plate, leading to Haverty's arrest in Cornwall the following day.
The victim shared her trauma and ongoing fears in a statement, describing the persistent impact of the attack on her mental well-being and ability to feel safe.
Haverty received a sentence of 10 years in prison, with an additional 4 years on licence.
Detective Constable Holly Hunt-Watts praised the investigation efforts, saying, “This was a truly horrendous incident in which a woman was deliberately struck by a van and subjected to an attempted kidnap. Through her courage, outstanding teamwork and a swift investigation, a dangerous offender has been put behind bars.”
The conviction highlights the professionalism and collaboration among police forces, including Devon & Cornwall Police.