Lee Woods, 31, of no fixed address, has been sentenced to 40 months in prison for a series of violent offences against a woman in Hastings, including grievous bodily harm and intentional strangulation.
The incident occurred on 20 August when police were called to a disturbance on Priory Road, off Egremont Place, following reports of Woods and the woman arguing. According to witnesses, Woods violently assaulted the woman, who is in her 30s, and strangled her inside her home. The attack took place in the presence of two young children, and Woods continued the assault in front of them.
In a desperate attempt to escape, the victim fled to the bathroom, but Woods pursued her, kicking down the door before continuing his assault. After the attack, Woods attempted to evade police but was arrested on 24 August. He was subsequently charged with grievous bodily harm, intentional strangulation, and criminal damage.
Woods pleaded guilty to all charges at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 28 August. On 24 September, he was sentenced at Hove Crown Court to 40 months’ imprisonment and was issued a five-year restraining order, prohibiting any contact with the victim.
Detective Constable Kieran Morris, who led the investigation, described the incident as “a horrific sustained attack of a lone female in front of two young children.” He emphasized, “The level of violence used against the victim was shocking.”
DC Morris also commended the courage of the victim throughout the investigation, saying, “I would like to praise the woman for her bravery in making this report and throughout the course of the investigation.”
He highlighted the swift handling of the case, noting that “this was dealt with swiftly with the commencement of the investigation to the date of conviction being just over 30 days, and that shows just how seriously we take cases of domestic abuse and violence against women and girls (VAWG).”
DC Morris concluded with a message of support for others experiencing domestic abuse: “I would urge and encourage anyone experiencing domestic abuse to come forward, you will be supported, and we remain committed to protecting all victims of domestic abuse and violence against women and girls.”
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, please contact the police or a local support service. In an emergency, always dial 999.
