A Richmond man who subjected a woman to a shocking catalogue of physical and emotional abuse has been jailed.
Dean Anthony Lomas was today sentenced to three years and four months in prison for assaulting the victim and posting a private photograph of her online.
The victim, a woman in her 20s, said she would “forever be damaged” by his actions.
Lomas, 29, had pleaded guilty to the offences at an earlier hearing at York Crown Court.
In addition to the jail sentence, he was given a 15-year restraining order.
In May 2019, Lomas assaulted the woman by stamping on her feet and ankles.
In August 2019, he posted a private, sexual photograph of her to a Facebook group.
In January 2020 – despite the fact that she was pregnant at the time – he bit her, grabbed her by the neck with both hands and strangled her.
And in July 2020, he sent a message to the victim’s mother, threatening to publish private information online – causing both women significant distress.
He was arrested and interviewed by police, when he falsely claimed that the victim had in fact attacked him, and that he had permission to share sexual photos of her online.
Officers saw through these lies, and he was charged.
In court, Lomas pleaded guilty to two charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, a charge of disclosing a private sexual photograph with the intention of causing distress to the victim, and a charge of sending a grossly offensive message on social media.
In a harrowing personal statement provided to the court, the victim addressed Lomas directly: “There will always be a part of me now that will forever be damaged by your actions, and no amount of pushing these thoughts to the back of my mind or talking about this situation will be enough to eradicate these intrusive thoughts.
“I will live with this forever.”
Speaking after the sentencing hearing, DC Adam Veitch, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “Lomas subjected the victim in this case to horrific abuse – both physical and emotional – which continues to affect her to this day.
“She initially thought no one would believe her, and that Lomas would never be charged, let alone plead guilty.
“Despite this, she showed immense courage in contacting the police, and ultimately ensured that Lomas was brought to justice for his crimes.
“This case should send a strong message that the behaviour Lomas displayed is completely unacceptable, and will be treated by police with the utmost seriousness.
“I also hope anyone else who finds themselves in a similar situation to the brave victim in this case will have the confidence to make that call and get help.”
Support for victims
Just talking to someone about what you are going through will make you realise that there are people on your side, who can help you understand what choices are available to you, and guide you to specialist organisations that can support you in making you and your family safe:
- IDAS – Independent Domestic Abuse Service: victims of domestic abuse can contact IDAS via their helpline number. Call 0300 110 110 or visit www.idas.org.uk
- Supporting Victims in North Yorkshire: the Supporting Victims service will provide support for anyone affected by crime. They are able to provide a wide range of support tailored to your individual needs, including immediate practical support and referral onto emotional and therapeutic support services such as counselling. Call 01609 643100 or visit www.supportingvictims.org
- If you have been assaulted and are fearful for your safety, always call 999 and get to a safe place. If you are not in immediate danger, you can contact North Yorkshire Police directly using the non-emergency number 101. Specially-trained officers are available to support you.
