A man was sentenced to 18 years in prison after repeatedly beating, raping and threatening to kill his victim for more than 16 years.
Louis Williams, 39, was sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court yesterday after it was heard he subjected the woman to ongoing abuse since meeting her in 2002.
Det Sgt, Jack Smith, who led the investigation, said: “The victim suffered years of horrific abuse at the hands of Williams and his actions led to this woman feeling scared, alone, and in fear of her life for years.”
After successfully attaining a restraining order against Williams in 2017, his violent pursuit still continued. In November 2018, Williams was arrested and later charged with indecent assault and rape.
On 29 July this year, Williams was found guilty of multiple counts of rape, one count of indecent assault, 10 counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, five counts of threats to kill and one count of coercive and controlling behaviour.
Williams’ imprisonment comes just days after South Yorkshire Police make 18 arrests in Sheffield for domestic abuse, rape and assault – tackling violence against women and girls during the annual global 16 Days of Activism campaign.
Det Sgt Smith added: “All forms of violence against women and girls will not be tolerated at South Yorkshire Police, this remains an ongoing priority. We will do our utmost to ensure that those responsible for behaviours of this nature are brought to justice.
“If you have been or feel you are a victim of abuse, please report it to us. We are ready and willing to listen. You can reach us on 101 or if you feel there is a threat to life, dial 999.”
