ALEX CARTLEDGE SENTENCED IN NOTTINGHAM FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT IN CITY CENTRE

A 23-year-old man named Alex Cartledge has been handed a five-year prison sentence following his involvement in a serious and prolonged sexual assault that took place in Nottingham. Nottinghamshire Police have described him as a "violent sexual predator," emphasizing the severity of his actions and the threat he posed to the community.

The incident unfolded in the heart of Nottingham City Centre during the early hours of Sunday, 15 May. According to reports, Cartledge was seen cycling behind a young woman as she was making her way home after a night out. The police investigation revealed that he then aggressively pushed her to the ground, initiating a sustained sexual assault that caused significant trauma to the victim. The attack was carried out under the cover of darkness, making it particularly heinous and frightening for the victim.

Following the assault, authorities responded swiftly. Cartledge was apprehended in close proximity to the scene, specifically on Great Freeman Street, where he was taken into custody for questioning. During initial police interviews, he denied any involvement, claiming that he had been in bed at the time of the attack. However, the investigation quickly gathered momentum when DNA evidence linked him to the scene. CCTV footage further confirmed his presence, capturing images of his distinctive electric bicycle, which was used to identify him as the suspect.

Faced with mounting evidence, Cartledge eventually confessed to the sexual assault. His admission led to his remand in custody as the legal proceedings moved forward. On 19 October, he appeared before Nottingham Crown Court, where he was formally sentenced to five years in prison. The court also ordered that he be registered as a sex offender for life, a measure designed to monitor his activities and prevent further harm. Additionally, upon his release, he will serve an extended license period of three years, during which he will be subject to strict supervision.

Detective Sergeant Lisa Jones from Nottinghamshire Police expressed her satisfaction that justice had been achieved in this case. She highlighted the profound impact the assault had on the victim and underscored the deliberate nature of Cartledge’s actions. Jones stated, “This was an appalling attack that has unsurprisingly had a very profound impact on the young woman involved. Cartledge deliberately followed his victim for some time before attacking her under the cover of darkness. He then lied to police about his whereabouts and only admitted to his guilt when confronted with irrefutable evidence.”

The police case underscores their unwavering commitment to pursuing offenders involved in such heinous crimes and ensuring that justice is served. The community of Nottingham can find some reassurance in the fact that individuals like Cartledge are held accountable for their actions, and the legal system continues to work diligently to protect its citizens from violent predators.