Marcus Jones, 22, of Witton Park, Bishop Auckland, was sentenced to 45 months in prison at Durham Crown Court on Friday, June 19, after following a woman into a toilet and attempting to strangle her during a terrifying attempted sex attack over the Christmas holidays.
Attack Details
The victim bravely managed to fight off Jones after he followed her into the toilet. She escaped, raised the alarm, and Jones fled the scene but was soon arrested. Police revealed that Jones had sent a text to his girlfriend stating he would lay in wait for the victim.
Charges and Sentencing
Jones was charged with false imprisonment, intentional strangulation, attempted sexual assault, and assault by beating. He received a 45-month prison sentence on June 19, 2025.
Police Statement
DC Hodgson of Durham Constabulary's South CID said: “The victim showed remarkable courage, quick thinking, and determination during an extremely distressing ordeal. Without her actions, the outcome could have been far more serious and her continued bravery in supporting the investigation has been instrumental in bringing Jones to justice.”
DC Hodgson added: “Despite Jones being previously unknown to police, his behaviour posed a very serious risk to public safety so we are glad to see him behind bars and hope this gives the victim some comfort so she can start to rebuild her life.”
Impact and Reassurance
Durham Constabulary emphasised their commitment to protecting the public from predators and pursuing those responsible for violence against women and girls, hoping this case reassures victims that reports are taken seriously and treated with sensitivity.
