Man jailed for ‘cruel’ attack on woman

A man who strangled and attacked a defenseless young woman, causing her to fracture her eye socket and cheekbone, has been sentenced to prison.

Craig Barker, 41, attacked the woman in Wakefield on February 17, 2023, leaving her with plates and screws on her face when she was treated in hospital, police said.

Barker, of no fixed address, was convicted of intentionally causing grievous bodily harm, non-fatal strangulation and breach of a restraining order.

Leeds Crown Court sentenced him to eight years in prison, suspended for a further two years.

Det Con Mandy Geary of West Yorkshire Police said: “This was a particularly horrific attack on a vulnerable young woman.”

“Violent attacks like this cannot be tolerated. Everyone must do their part to challenge behavior and report violence, sexual violence, controlling or coercive behavior, or harassment to authorities.”

The officer added: “If anyone has been a victim of crime or is concerned about someone they know, I urge them to report it.”

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