LITTLEHAMPTON, ENGLAND – A man from Littlehampton has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for sexually assaulting a woman and subjecting her to a horrific assault. Christopher Holland, 34, of Mill Lane, was charged with intentional strangulation, causing actual bodily harm (ABH), engaging in coercive/controlling behavior, and sexual assault by penetration following a vicious attack in November 2022.
Police responded to a property in Brighton after neighbors reported a woman screaming for help in the early hours of Saturday, November 26. The victim, a woman in her 40s, had suffered significant injuries after what she described as a vicious, prolonged assault over more than 90 minutes. Holland fled the scene, but was arrested within 24 hours.
Holland pleaded guilty to all three offenses and was later charged with a violent sexual assault from August 2022. He was subsequently found guilty of sexual assault by penetration and sentenced to 15 years in prison, with an indefinite restraining order against his victim. In a victim impact statement, the woman described the impact of the abuse, stating that she was too scared to be in her house alone and experienced a loss of self-confidence.
Detective Constable Jess Gwynn emphasized the devastating impact of domestic violence on its victims and the long-lasting psychological trauma they endure. She commended the bravery of the victim in supporting the investigation through to prosecution and urged anyone experiencing domestic abuse to seek help.
The case highlights the lasting impact of domestic violence and the importance of supporting victims through the legal process. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please know that help is available. Contact local authorities or emergency services for assistance.