By Praise for woman who fought off armed Birmingham sex attacker
A woman who fought off an armed Birmingham sex attacker and provided crucial video evidence to police has seen him put behind bars for more than 13 years.
John Tucker’s victim fought off the 53-year-old even though he was armed with a kitchen knife when he forced his way into her room.
She also managed to film part of the attack on her mobile phone before escaping and calling police.
With support from specially-trained police officers the woman was able to provide details about the assault which, along with the phone footage, proved vital in the case.
Tucker, from Kingstanding, Birmingham, admitted false imprisonment with the intention to commit rape at Wolverhampton Crown Court.
He was sentenced to 13 years and six months with an extended licence of six years. He will also remain on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.
During the sentencing Judge Berlin praised the woman for her ‘remarkable bravery’ during the incident in March.
He went on to describe the case as ‘appalling’ and said that Tucker had shown ‘no remorse whatsoever’.
Det Insp Dave Sproson from West Midlands Police Public Protection Unit said: “We can only commend the courage of this woman both during, and since, this horrifying attack.
“Tucker now faces many years behind bars and we hope this will provide some sense of justice to his victim.”
For advice about reporting a sexual assault or rape visit https://www.west-midlands.police.uk/your-options/sexual-assault
Support is also available by contacting RSVP (Rape & Sexual Violence Project) Birmingham at https://rsvporg.co.uk/
