Staithes man was jailed for attempting to strangle a woman

Paul Craig Harding of Staithes Lane, Staithes pleaded guilty to charges of molestation, actual assault and willful strangulation at a previous hearing in York Magistrates Court. He was sentenced to a year and a half in prison by Teesside Crown Court on Wednesday 10 May.

The court heard how Harding subjected the victim to a violent assault on November 26 last year, during which he punched, kicked and strangled her. He was arrested in connection with the incident and released after being questioned on condition that he would not contact the victim. However, Harding ignored the terms and sent numerous unsolicited emails to the victim.

Following last week’s sentencing, North Yorkshire Police Investigating Officer John Chapman said: “I would like to thank the victim for having the courage to come forward and tell the police about and for the violence they experienced at Harding’s hand .” her courage throughout the process in which she was asked to testify.

“We fully recognize that coming forward to report to the police is a daunting task for victims. We are committed to supporting victims throughout the criminal process and will do whatever we can to achieve a positive outcome in court.

“Anyone experiencing abuse and violence, please speak to someone. If you don’t feel ready to speak to the police, there are a number of agencies, such as IDAS (Independent Domestic Abuse Services), who are ready to help.

“If you wish to make a police report, please call 101 or, in an emergency, dial 999.”