Man Jailed for Sex Assault, Knottingley

Monday, 9 October, 2023

A man who rugby tackled a woman to the floor before sexually assaulting her has been jailed for seven years.

Lee Belsham, aged 38, attacked the woman on Sowgate Lane in Knottingley, on the afternoon of 6 March.

His victim was walking in the park when Belsham walked past her. Moments later she was approached from behind, pulled to the ground and sexually assaulted.

Witnesses saw a man running away from the scene. He was captured on CCTV leaving the area and identified as Belsham by police officers.

Belsham, formerly of Ferrybridge Road, Knottingley, admitted sexual assault at a court hearing last month.

Appearing before Leeds Crown Court for sentencing on Friday (6/10), he was jailed for seven years. He was also given an extended licence for a further three years.

Speaking outside court, Detective Inspector Rachel Darling from Wakefield District Safeguarding Unit said:

"I would like to praise the victim for her bravery in coming forward to report the offences to police.

"She was subjected to a frightening and horrendous ordeal, but now I hope the sentence Belsham received will allow her some closure to what has happened."

"I would also like to praise the tenacity of the investigation team here in Wakefield who worked diligently to ensure Belsham was brought to justice.

"I would urge anyone who has suffered any sexual crime to come forward to the police so that we can investigate it.

"We have specially-trained police officers here in Wakefield and across West Yorkshire who will offer support and advice throughout.

"We are committed to creating an environment where women and girls can feel safe and be safe and will continue to pursue offenders of these crimes."

Speaking after the sentencing, Belsham's victim, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, said: "I cannot fault the support and kindness that I have received from the police from the date this happened.

"Everything that the officer in the case has done for me is greatly appreciated.

"I have waited for this day for seven months and I feel I can begin again now and move on.

"I will not allow that man to destroy my life."