Abuser jailed after beating a woman and trying to strangle her

A man who repeatedly attacked a woman and tried to strangle her has been jailed for three years.

Charlie Daniel Clowes, 55, from the Bedale area, was found guilty of intentional strangulation and two counts of assault after leaving the woman with extensive bruising and a facial injuries. 

Concerns were raised for the safety of the victim after she was seen with visible injuries.

However, the court heard how the defendant would routinely beat the victim usually targeting his blows where the injuries would not be visible to anyone else.

Clowes showed no remorse for his actions, denying the offences during police interviews and throughout the trial, at one point claiming the dog had caused the injuries and the victim had fallen up the stairs.

Investigating officer, PC Harry Fearn of Hambleton and Richmondshire Response Team, said: “The victim endured serious assaults at the hands of Clowes for several years but was too afraid to come forward out of fear of repercussions.

“She has shown immense bravery in providing the evidence to convict Clowes and see him put behind bars.

“The court heard and saw the significant physical and emotional harm Clowes had inflicted on the victim and her courage in providing the evidence should not be underestimated.

“Clowes is a danger to women and is now facing the consequences of his sickening abuse. He now has ample time in prison to reflect on what he has done and take every opportunity to change his behaviour.

“No-one should have to live in constant fear and be afraid to tell anyone. I hope the outcome of this case encourages other victims of abuse to come forward.”

The jury found Clowes guilty of intentional strangulation, assault causing actual bodily harm and assault by beating on 28 June. He was remanded in custody until his sentencing at York Crown Court on 7 August 2024 where he was also issued with a 15-year restraining order.

Reporting domestic abuse

If you are living with domestic abuse – which is not always physical – please tell someone.

• Call the police on 101
• If you are in immediate danger always call the police on 999.

You can report to other agencies to get help if you prefer not to talk to the police. See the links below.

Clare’s Law

You can request information from the police about a partner or ex-partner’s offending through the domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme also known as ‘Clare’s Law’.

This also allows a third party such as a relative or friend, to request information if they are concerned about you.

Find out more or make a request here Request information under Clare's Law: Make a Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS) application | North Yorkshire Police

Support services

You can self-refer to Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS) IDAS

Refuge & National helpline Refuge, the largest UK domestic abuse organisation for women

Women’s Aid Home - Women's Aid (womensaid.org.uk)

Men’s advice line Domestic Abuse Helpline for Men | Men's Advice Line UK (mensadviceline.org.uk)

Hourglass help for older people Hourglass (wearehourglass.org)

Click here for more support services Support organisations for victims of domestic violence | North Yorkshire Police