A man kicked a door down to attack and strangle a woman.

Brighton Magistrates’ Court heard police were called to a report of a disturbance in Priory Road, Hastings, on August 20 after Lee Woods and the woman could be heard arguing.

The 31-year-old violently assaulted her during this exchange and strangled her.

The woman tried to escape to the bathroom but he kicked the door down and assaulted her.

After trying to evade police, Woods, of no fixed address, was arrested on August 24 and charged with grievous bodily harm, intentional strangulation and criminal damage.

He pleaded guilty to all three charges on August 28 at Brighton Magistrates' court.

On September 24 at Hove Crown Court, Woods was sentenced to 40 months’ imprisonment and was handed a five year restraining order against the woman.

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Detective Constable Kieran Morris said: “This was a horrific sustained attack of a lone female. The level of violence used against the victim was shocking.

“I would like to praise the woman in her bravery in making this report and throughout the course of the investigation.

“This was dealt with swiftly with the commencement of the investigation to the date of conviction being just over 30 days, and that shows just how seriously we take cases of domestic abuse and violence against women and girls (VAWG).

“I would urge and encourage anyone experiencing domestic abuse to come forward, you will be supported and we remain committed to protecting all victims of domestic abuse and violence against women and girls.”