TOMMY WARD AND HIS SHOCKING ATTACK IN HULL AND HEDON
A violent offender, Tommy Ward, has been sentenced to three years in prison after an especially brutal assault that nearly resulted in a young woman's death.The incident took place in July 2022, and the repercussions of the attack have had profound effects on all involved.
Tommy Ward, aged 23 and residing on Hull Road in Hedon, was found responsible for a severe and life-threatening assault.
During the attack, Ward attempted to suffocate his victim, causing her serious facial injuries.
Police described the assault as a 'brutal attack which almost cost her life,' highlighting the severity and danger of the incident.
Following the assault, Ward did not stay at the scene.
Instead, he fled the area, taking drastic measures to destroy evidence.
He deliberately destroyed his mobile phones before his arrest, likely in an attempt to erase any trace of his communications and activity related to the attack.
Despite these efforts, investigators uncovered substantial evidence linking him to the crime.
This evidence played a crucial role in his subsequent arrest and charge.
Ward was taken into custody and appeared before a court in March, where he pleaded guilty to multiple charges.
These included breach of notification obligations under the Sexual Offences Act 2003, criminal damage, assault by beating, non-fatal suffocation, theft, sending electronic communications with intent to cause distress, and witness intimidation.
His guilty plea marked a significant step in the legal process, leading to his remand.
The investigation and prosecution were led by Detective Constable Daniel Radford, who provided comments following Ward's sentencing.
He emphasized that Ward had previously been on the sex offender’s register for two years after being cautioned in October 2021 for possessing an indecent image of a child.
Despite this prior warning, Ward blatantly disregarded his legal obligations and conditions, breaching his requirements under the Sexual Offences Act 2003—specifically, the rule that convicted sex offenders must avoid contact with children.
Detective Radford expressed concern that Ward’s victim, unaware of his past, was vulnerable herself.
The victim had young children of her own, and Ward’s manipulation and deceit extended to those trying to monitor him.
His violent attack underscored the danger he posed and the importance of vigilant monitoring.
Describing the assault, the officer referred to it as truly appalling and acknowledged the victim’s luck in escaping with her life.
He also praised her immense courage for coming forward and supporting the police investigation.
The detective used this case to reinforce a message of encouragement to others experiencing domestic abuse.
He stated, “I want to thank the victim for her support of the police action and in coming forward despite the intimidation.
Her bravery and support may have saved future victims from the abuse, safeguarded children, and potentially saved someone’s life if Tommy Ward was allowed to continue his dangerous behaviour.” Furthermore, Detective Radford acknowledged the difficulty victims face when disclosing abuse and emphasized the importance of support services.
He urged anyone suffering from or aware of abuse to contact the police, assuring them that they will be listened to and supported.
He encouraged victims to take the courageous first step towards safety, emphasizing that help is available and no one has to face their ordeal alone.
