A brutal attacker who assaulted a defenseless woman in her residence is set to serve 16 months in prison.
Fabio Paulo violently struck the woman, an acquaintance of his, multiple times while trying to extort £500 from her at her Eastbourne home on 18 March.
When she denied his request, he malevolently used her hair straighteners to inflict burns on her.
The savage assault resulted in 13 distinct injuries, one of which was an evident mark on her shoulder where Paulo had stomped on her.
Paulo, a 28-year-old from Blenheim Drive, Hawkinge, Kent, even stooped to contacting the victim’s family, sending images of the inflicted wounds in a bid for the money.
Upon police arrival, he took off, snatching the woman’s phone. However, officers quickly apprehended him.
Following his arrest, Paulo faced charges of assault, extortion, and theft. He confessed to all charges during a preliminary hearing and was sentenced on 26 July at Lewes Crown Court.
Additionally, Paulo must pay a £187 victim fee and adhere to a five-year restraining order protecting the victim.
Detective Police Constable Sam Collyer said: “This was a horrific attack on a vulnerable woman in her own home, a place she should feel most safe.
“I would like to commend her for her incredible bravery throughout the investigation and court process and hope she can now move forward and rebuild her life knowing she has made a difference.
“Sussex Police will continue to work with victims and witnesses who come forward to report allegations to us. And we urge anyone who has been a victim of any form of abuse to come forward. We will listen to you and we will support you.”
