Truro man sentenced after woman heard screaming in alleyway

Somebody nearby heard a woman screaming and crying. Then came the words “leave me alone”.

That call brought police to an alleyway in Truro city centre, and last week the man they found there was sentenced in court.

Four weeks in prison

Gareth Healey, 37, of Polruan Road, Truro, appeared at Truro Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 5 November for sentence, having pleaded guilty to common assault.

He was sentenced to four weeks in prison but released due to time already served.

What the court heard

The court heard that on 13 October officers went to The Leats area of Truro following a third-party report of an assault.

The caller said he could hear a woman screaming and crying while she was being assaulted by a man. He also heard her shout “leave me alone”.

Officers found Gareth and the woman together in an alleyway. He was arrested and made no comment in interview.

‘The sentence may appear modest’

Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Price said: “Gareth Healey is a dangerous offender who has on a number of occasions been convicted of using violence towards women.

“Whilst the sentence handed down by the court may appear modest, it should not detract from the seriousness of the offending.

“Tackling violence against women and girls remains a Force priority, and we will continue to work relentlessly to identify perpetrators, protect victims, and bring offenders before the courts.”

If it happens to you

If you have been the victim of violence, you can report it by calling 101 or through the police website. If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

Sarah added: “Support is available.”

📷Gareth Healey