Bedale man jailed after beating and trying to strangle woman

Charlie Daniel Clowes, 55, from the Bedale area, was handed a three-year jail term after repeated attacks on the woman.

The alarm was raised after he left her with extensive bruising and injuries to her face following an assault.

York Crown Court heard he would routinely beat the terrified woman, usually targeting her where her injuries would go unnoticed by others.

Police said she had endured ‘several years’ of Clowes’ behaviour and feared coming forward over fear of repercussions.

Charlie Daniel Clowes. (Image: NORTH YORKSHIRE POLICE)

At one point he claimed the injuries had been inflicted by a dog, and that the woman had fallen up the stairs.

He repeatedly denied the charges during police interviews and a trial in June, but a jury saw through his lies and found him guilty of intentional strangulation, and two counts of assault.

He showed no remorse for his actions.

On Tuesday (August 6) Clowes was jailed for three years and handed a 15-year restraining order.

Investigating officer PC Harry Fearn 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.”