A Littlehampton man has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for a horrific assault on a woman, including sexual assault, intentional strangulation, and causing actual bodily harm. Christopher Holland, 34, was charged with these offenses following an attack in November 2022.
The police were called to a property in Brighton after neighbors reported a woman screaming for help. The victim, a woman in her 40s, had suffered significant injuries and described the assault as vicious and prolonged, lasting over 90 minutes. Holland fled the scene but was arrested within 24 hours.
In addition to the initial charges, Holland was also charged with a violent sexual assault from August 2022. He pleaded guilty to all charges and was sentenced to 15 years in prison with an indefinite restraining order against his victim. The impact of the abuse on the victim was described in a statement read out in court, highlighting the physical and psychological trauma she endured.
According to Detective Constable Jess Gwynn, domestic violence has devastating effects, including physical impacts and long-lasting psychological trauma. She commended the quick-thinking actions of the neighbors and the bravery of the victim in supporting the investigation. Gwynn urged anyone experiencing domestic abuse to seek help from the authorities.
The victim’s harrowing experience and the successful prosecution of Christopher Holland serve as a reminder of the realities of domestic abuse and the importance of supporting survivors. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please seek help from the authorities or emergency services.