MAN JAILED FOR 14 YEARS AFTER ATTACKING ELDERLY WOMAN AS SHE SLEPT
A man who broke into the home of a sleeping pensioner and subjected her to a violent attack has been sentenced to 14 years in prison.The incident occurred shortly after 9pm on 24 March last year, when Carl John Reed entered the property of a 72-year-old woman living alone in Holyhead.
The woman awoke after hearing a noise inside her home and immediately sensed someone was in her bedroom.
Turning over, she saw Reed crouched beside her face.
He then forcibly restrained her on the bed, using his arms to pin her down, while demanding money and threatening to “knife” her.
Reed, aged 52, went on to punch the woman multiple times in the face, head, and mouth, causing her lip to bleed.
Despite telling him she had no money, Reed persisted with the assault, continuing to demand cash.
While Reed moved into another bedroom, the woman managed to flee the property and run out into the street, screaming for help.
She sought refuge at a neighbour’s house, where she explained what had happened and contacted the police.
Forensic officers discovered Reed’s DNA on several items within the victim’s home, including a black crowbar and a pair of blue disposable gloves that were stained with both his DNA and the woman’s blood.
Investigators also recovered a footwear imprint at the scene that matched the trainers Reed had been seen wearing on CCTV footage earlier that day.
Reed, of no fixed address, appeared at Caernarfon Crown Court on Tuesday, 24 September, where he admitted to assaulting the woman with intent to commit robbery.
He received a custodial sentence of 10 years, with an additional four years to be served on licence.
Detective Constable Leslie Ellis said: “Everyone has the right to feel safe and secure in their home.
“This was a traumatic experience for the victim, who was violently beaten whilst she slept in her bed.
“The victim was a popular member of her community, who served valiantly as a nurse for over 30 years before retiring.
She was fun with a bubbly personality and had a real zest for life, but since the incident her health continues to suffer significantly.
“The actions of Carl Reed were immeasurable and cannot be underestimated—it has had a devastating impact on her life.
“Although no sentence will reflect the everlasting trauma experienced by the victim, I commend her bravery throughout the investigation.
“I would also extend my thanks to the community of Holyhead for their assistance which has helped to bring Carl Reed to justice.”
