A teenager who attempted to rape a woman near New Romney in May of this year has been jailed for 6 years and 9 months.
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Jack Usher was arrested and charged after detectives from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate investigated the incident on 13 May this year.
The 18-year-old admitted attempted rape at Canterbury Crown Court in July and was jailed for six years and nine months at the same court on Tuesday 17 October.
He will serve an extended six-year licence period after that term and has been placed on the Sex Offender Register indefinitely.
Offence
The victim was walking along a woodland path near Dunes Road, Greatstone, shortly after 5pm on 13 May when she encountered Usher, who was not known to her.
He ran up behind her and repeatedly hit her to the head, knocking her to the ground.
He told the woman he was going to rape her and attempted to drag her towards some bushes.
Investigation and arrest
The victim managed to push him away and leave the area before contacting police.
An investigation was launched which saw an extensive review of all CCTV in the area, leading to Usher being identified as a suspect.
He was arrested at his home in New Romney on 18 May and was charged the following day.
Bringing offenders to justice
Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Ross Gurden said: ‘This attack would have been terrifying for the victim and I would like to praise her courage in supporting our investigation and this prosecution.
‘I hope the quick arrest and charge of this suspect, as well as the jail term now imposed, reassures the local community, who must have found the incident very concerning.
‘Tackling violence against women and girls is Kent Police’s top priority and an important part of that is tracking down and bringing to justice offenders like Jack Usher.’
If you have been a victim of violence and wish to report an offence, click here. Always call 999 in an emergency.