BRISTOL MAN HANDED 17-YEAR EXTENDED SENTENCE FOR ATTEMPTED RAPE
A man under the influence of alcohol and drugs broke into a woman's home in Bristol, assaulted her, and attempted to sexually assault her in front of her baby, a court was told.During a 999 emergency call, a police operator heard her screams repeatedly as she begged Michael Young to leave her alone.
After striking her in the face, removing her underwear, and making unwanted advances, Young ceased his attack.
When police arrived, they found her naked from the waist down, holding her child, and they had to place him in handcuffs to arrest him.
The 38-year-old, residing on Overndale Road in Downend, pleaded guilty to charges of attempted rape and trespass with intent to commit a sexual offence.
He also admitted to assault causing actual bodily harm earlier this year.
Judge James Patrick sentenced him to an extended term of 17 years—10 years in prison with a two-thirds minimum serve, followed by seven years of extended licence.
He warned Young that his addiction made him dangerous and posed a significant risk of committing serious offences.
Young was also ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was prohibited from working with children and vulnerable adults.
During the trial, prosecutor Emily Cook explained that Young forced his way into the woman's house, punched her, and repeatedly touched her private parts before ripping off her underwear.
The police call recording captured the attack as it happened.
It was revealed that Young had consumed cocaine, an anti-anxiety drug, and a bottle of vodka before the assault.
He chose not to comment when interviewed.
The victim stated she now feels frightened and emotionally unsettled, especially at night.
Defense lawyer Barry White expressed remorse on behalf of his client, attributing the incident to Young's recent use of drugs and alcohol and highlighting that he had been abstinent beforehand.
Mr.
White added that Young’s life deteriorated after losing his job at the Evening Post in 2014, leading to a substance abuse history involving crack cocaine and heroin.
