(Image: DURHAM POLICE)
A County Durham attacker who kicked and punched a woman leaving her with black eyes, lumps and scrapes has been jailed.
Haydon Lane, of Barwick Street in Easington Colliery, left a “devastating impact” upon his victim following a string of attacks.
The 24-year-old, who was described as a “very angry man", was both “degrading and humiliating” to her, Teesside Crown Court heard on Friday (October 16).
Eddison Flint, prosecuting, described how Lane's abuse had left the woman with black eyes, lumps and scrapes after “punching, kicking, and throwing articles”.
A victim impact statement read out in court detailed how the woman was now “scared to answer the door” unless someone had already arranged a visit with her.
“I freeze in place if someone comes to the door,” she said. “I avoid going out in public if I don’t have to. I am constantly tired and drained.
Lane pleaded guilty to two counts of assault by beating at trial.
Paul Walker, mitigating, noted the “devastating” victim impact statement and said Lane, who has one previous conviction for battery, has had “time to reflect” on his behaviour.
“He has made progress while in prison,” he said. “His physical and mental health has improved in prison. He has effectively been a model prison.”
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Mr Walker did say, however, that prison “has had a major impact”.
Judge Jo Kidd said his behaviour was “frequently degrading and humiliating" and that the consequences of it “will be long lived and serious”.
Judge Kidd noted the positive steps taken in prison since being on remand, saying he is “showing the first signs of maturity, reflection, and insight”.
Lane, who appeared via video link from HMP Durham, was jailed for 27 months.